Utilization of Radar Feature Catalogs as a Training
Supplement (46)
Jason Schaumann, NOAA/NWS,
Springfield, MO
Doug Cramer, NOAA/NWS
Aaron Johnson, NOAA/NWS
John Stoppkotte, NOAA/NWS
Mike Griffin, NOAA/NWS
Abstract:
For the last five years,
radar features associated with an increased potential for QLCS mesovortex
tornadoes have been catalogued en masse and frequently presented to forecasters
at the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Springfield, MO. This catalog
approach was developed to mimic that of repetitive cerebral training such as
memorizing flashcards. Building &ldquomuscle memory&rdquo through
viewing numerous examples of these features has been a valuable training asset
to Springfield forecasters with significant improvement noted in QLCS warning
decision-making and verification statistics. Forecasters indicate they have
much greater confidence as radar operators during QLCS events, with several
noting that they now recognize critical radar features
&ldquosubconsciously&rdquo.
The NWS Central Region
Tornado Warning Improvement Project (TWIP) Team has adopted this approach and
is cataloging radar features for numerous signatures which indicate an
increased likelihood for both supercell and QLCS tornadoes, as well as
signatures which detract from tornado potential such as false velocity
couplets. These radar feature catalogs are being used as a supplement to peer
reviewed literature, learning modules, and hands-on weather event simulations.
Catalog entry formats developed by the TWIP vary depending upon the complexity
of each feature and include narrated MP4s, animated PowerPoint presentations,
and self-driven PowerPoint presentations. All entries contain Storm Data plots
and Level 2 radar data for individuals wishing to further examine each case.
The radar feature catalogs are available to NOAA staff via TWIP VLab and Google
Sites.