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CSU machine learning model helps forecasters improve confidence in storm prediction

Over the last several years, Russ Schumacher, professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science and Colorado State Climatologist, has led a team developing a sophisticated machine learning model for advancing skillful prediction of hazardous weather across the continental United States. First trained on historical records of excessive rainfall, the model is now smart enough to make accurate predictions of events like tornadoes and hail four to eight days in advance – the crucial sweet spot for forecasters to get information out to the public so they can prepare. The model is called CSU-MLP, or Colorado State University-Machine Learning Probabilities. 

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Webinar: FY23 Notice of Funding Opportunity

WPO recently held a webinar hosted by the NOAA Central Library on the FY23 Notice of Funding Opportunity. Our Program Managers spoke in detail about about this year’s competitions for Observations, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Innovations for Community Modeling, and VORTEX-USA. We also shared tips on how to write a compelling proposal, how to successfully…

WindBorne 3D profile over globe

WindBorne Weather Balloon Reaches New Heights in Atmospheric Measurement Capabilities

The Observations Program at the Weather Program Office has partnered with WindBorne Systems, Inc. to fund the development of an advanced weather balloon. This technology offers a low cost platform enabling collection of surface to stratosphere weather data in lesser-sampled regions. Long Range Sampling and Dynamic Altitude Control With an average flight time of 7…

Phased Array Radar Inside Dome.

Phased Array Radar

Radar is an essential observing technology for weather forecasting and research. It provides critical data for weather forecasts and warnings, benefits meteorological research and aids the National Weather Service’s (NWS) delivery of impact-based decision support services to partners. This includes those in the emergency management and water resources communities, and federal, state, local, tribal, and…

Sunrise seen from above the mountains

WPO Launches New Social Science Hub

Over the last 15 years, NOAA has made great strides in integrating social and behavioral sciences in part through externally funded research projects. The goal of these efforts is to improve the communication of forecast products, assess the verbal and visual presentation of uncertainty, understand hazardous weather decision environments, and more. While much social and…