Integrated Impact-based Decision Support Services and
Operations for a Common Operating Picture Using Hazard Builder, Trigger Chart
and Enhanced Hazardous Weather Outlook (112)
Andy Foster, National
Weather Service, Springfield, MO
Jason Schaumann, National
Weather Servicde
Eric Wise, National
Weather Service
Jerry Wiedenfeld, National
Weather Service
Abstract:
The ability of the National
Weather Service (NWS) to provide consistent and effective Impact-based Decision
Support Services (IDSS) in building a Weather Ready Nation (WRN) requires an
integrated holistic approach accounting for the forecast process, operations
and services. As part of the NWS Central Region WRN Roadmap an integrated or
end-to-end approach was adopted to build a common operating picture to
facilitate workforce, forecast and services evolution. Key components include
HazardBuilder, Trigger Chart and Enhanced Hazardous Weather Outlook.
HazardBuilder as an
integrated component of ForecastBuilder serves as a foundation to an end-to-end
IDSS process in support of a Forecaster Decision Support Environment (FDSE).
HazardBuilder creates a database of graphical weather hazard risks within the
Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) Graphical Forecast
Editor (GFE). This database of graphical hazard risks is derived from weather
elements which populate the National Digital Forecast Database (NDFD) and also
utilizes output and guidance from national centers. Weather hazard risks
generated by the HazardBuilder are then integrated into the forecast process,
operational decision-making, and interpretive decision support services.
Internal to the NWS, hazard
risks derived from HazardBuilder provide a baseline to the Trigger Chart which
supports the FDSE which aid forecasters in determining operational tempo and
identifying baseline services. The Trigger Chart guides the forecaster in
identifying potential weather hazard impacts and probabilities which yield
standard operations levels or tempo that guide NWS staff to baseline operations
and services.
External to the NWS, hazard
risk levels derived from HazardBuilder feed the Enhanced Hazardous Weather
Outlook (EHWO). The EHWO supports preparedness and response efforts prior to
and during hazardous weather events by providing graphics which depict risk
areas, risk levels, and potential impacts for numerous weather hazards.
This integrated approach
accentuates the value of the forecast, supports operations and enhances IDSS
for an increasingly diverse customer base.