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Weather Forecast Maps Created on AWIPS Once the forecast has been decided upon by using data from the latest computer model runs, our meteorologists draw their weather predictions on several different weather element maps located in a database on AWIPS (our computer system). Then the maps are sent out via the world wide web and satellite uplinks for use by our customers. Click here to go directly to the webpage where the current weather maps are posted. The examples below show a sky cover map (below left...darker grey represents more clouds) and expected snowfall totals (ranging from a trace in areas colored white to over 6 inches in areas colored red). It's easy to see on these maps which areas will have more sun that others and which areas will see the most snowfall. Many customers find these maps easier to use than reading the traditional text version of the forecast. Other weather forecast maps that are available include maximum and minimum temperatures, hourly temperatures, probability of precipitation, type of precipitation, wind speed and direction, dew point, and amount of rainfall.
These forecast maps are available on a nationwide scale as well. NWS forecast offices from across the country send their weather map database to a Silver Spring, Maryland computer center so they can be combined into a nationwide composite. The nationwide composites are useful for travelers, national media, and other companies that need weather data from across the country. An example of a national high temperature map is below. Click here to go directly to the website where the nationwide maps are posted. |
