The Climate Analysis Center's User Information Service

Abstract

A wide variety of current climate products are being developed, produced, and disseminated to a diverse group of users by the Climate Analysis Center (CAC). The Climate Assessment Data Base (CADB), a major resource used to generate many of these products, is described, with emphasis on its history, real-time global data input, quality control techniques, and data estimation procedures. Several sample products used for climate assessments are shown and discussed in detail. The full spectrum of product types ranges from simple automated tables, indices, and charts to more complex interactively derived products. Dissemination methods include mail, special dial-up communication computers, weather facsimile, internal National Weather Service communication links, and press releases. Future plans for CAC's User Information Service are summarized.