[Skywarn] New COMET Update

[Lloyd Colston]

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 <https://www.meted.ucar.edu/re
sources_faq.php>