The Evolution of Morning Convective Systems over the U.S. Great Plains during the Warm Season. Part I: The Forecast Problem

Abstract

The factors that influence the evolution of convective systems during the late morning over much of the Great Plains are not understood well. It is known that in this region the majority of such systems dissipate or decrease in intensity during this period. With this fact in mind, a summary is given of comments made during the occurrence of morning convective systems by forecasters at two National Weather Service (NWS) offices relating to factors that were most important in determining their forecasts of system evolution. In addition, results of a preliminary climatological study covering eight summer months for 181 summer precipitation systems affecting the county warning areas of the two NWS offices during late morning are presented. Revealed among the significant system characteristics is that approximately two-thirds of the included systems either decreased in intensity or dissipated during the late morning.