Meteorologist Expertise, Client Relationships, and
Data Synthesis: How AccuWeather Meteorologists Save Lives and Protect Property
in Data-sparse Regions (261)
Thomas Bedard, AccuWeather,
Wichita, KS
Becky DePodwin, AccuWeather
Abstract:
On July 19, 2013, a series of
moisture-rich thunderstorms moved over Ferromex rail track in north central
Mexico, causing flash flooding across this extremely data-sparse region. Flash
flooding washed out a segment of railroad track that was 45 feet deep and 200
feet long and would have derailed a train in an instant. Catastrophe was averted
due to the work of AccuWeather Enterprise Solutions (AES) Certified Storm
Warning Meteorologists. Fortunately, that segment of track had been under a
Flash Flood Warning issued by AES Meteorologists, and the railroad company was
able to pull the track from service until it could be repaired, ensuring no
train crossed the track and no lives were put in harm's way. The success of
this warning, in a data-sparse region, is credited to the training and
expertise of AES meteorologists, as well as the development of client
relationships and unique data analysis techniques. Each warning is specifically
tailored to client thresholds. The flash flood event of July 19, 2013 will be
discussed, including data synthesis techniques, geographical and terrain
familiarity, pattern recognition, and how AES meteorologists utilize this
information to determine what type of warning to issue and when.