From colstonl at gmail.com Wed Oct 19 07:08:58 2016 From: colstonl at gmail.com (Lloyd Colston) Date: Wed, 19 Oct 2016 06:08:58 -0500 Subject: [Skywarn] New COMET Update Message-ID: The COMET program is pleased to announce updates to the Operational Models Encyclopedia (https://www.meted.ucar.edu/training_module.php?id=1186). COMET has added an entry describing the Real-Time Mesoscale Analysis/UnRestricted Mesoscale Analysis (RTMA/URMA). The RTMA/URMA is the analysis used to bias correct and weight the elements of the National Blend of Models (NBM) and reflects the August 2016 implementation. Additionally, the RAP/HRRR encyclopedia entry has been revised to reflect updates made to these models during August 2016. The WRF dynamical core was updated to v3.6 and forecast hours for the RAP were increased from 18 to 21 hours and from 15 to 18 hours for the HRRR. Other updates included adding the effect of aerosols on precipitation microphysics, a switch to the RRTMG radiation scheme, improvements to the MYNN planetary boundary layer scheme and the RUC land surface model, and the implementation of the Grell/Frietas convection scheme. The changes overall reduced a warm, dry bias in the RAP and HRRR. Finally, the Encyclopedia now includes direct links to Meteorological Services of Canada (MSC) global and regional model descriptions. The MSC will periodically update these descriptions to reflect the most recent MSC model upgrades. We welcome any comments or questions you may have regarding the content, instructional approach, or use of this lesson. Please e-mail your comments or questions to Bill Bua (bua AT ucar.edu). For technical support, please visit our Registration and Support FAQs