Hobbies And Interests
Algorithms
Algorithms are mathematical processes that take raw data and convert it into information. Wen-Chau Lee, a scientist at the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, devised an algorithm to use ground-based radar data to create VORTRAC, which the National Hurricane Center uses to predict the ferocity of hurricanes when they approach the shore. Land-based cyclone activity also has inspired the creation of algorithms. The NSSL devised an automated process to find mesocyclones, as well as a program that creates automated wind profiles; this algorithm is called the velocity azimuth display (VAD) method. Mesocyclones are the narrowing, spinning lines of wind that bring cloud walls with them, becoming cyclones about half the time; the others dissipate for lack of warm and wet air.
High-Wind Balloon Launching Device
One area in which weather researchers had lacked data until the early 2000s was upper air data in severe storms, right around dry lines and tornadoes. A "dry line" separates a dry mass of air from a wet one, and storms tend to push them from west to east. If a dry line passes over you, you'll notice a decrease in humidity and clearing skies. Cyclones tend to form just on the east side of these lines.
This data would help them understand what goes on in the upper air in a storm right before the rotation of a cyclone begins. NOAA developed a special device for launching balloons filled with helium in winds approaching 100 mph. These balloons are equipped to track wind trends high in the storms and, when they were first devised, gave researchers the first vertical look at how electrical fields in storms. They are still in use as of 2011.
Mobile Radar Units
Called "SMART-Radars," these units (1.96 inches in diameter) go along with storm watchers and can track a whole storm that is capable of producing tornadoes. Having this sort of observation tool on sight helps meteorologists become aware of impending cyclone formation almost instantaneously, giving them more time to warn the public through television and radio announcements.
Weather Balloons
Because of their relative fragility compared with other tools, weather balloons are used less commonly than other observation tools. However, in 2003 and 2004 the NSSL conducted the Thunderstorm Electrification and Lightning Experiment (TELEX), launching weather balloons into severe thunderstorms, some of which had signs of cyclone activity. The observations that these balloons made significantly influenced the effectiveness of predicting severe storm activity, including cyclone formation.