Computer Worded Forecasts

Abstract

A computer program is available that produces public weather forecasts in worded form from digital forecasts of weather elements. This program was designed to be implemented concurrently with the AFOS (Automation of Field Operations and Services) system. One version of the program operates on NOAA's large computer system and will send forecasts over the National Distribution Circuit; another version can be run on the local AFOS minicomputers. This paper describes input to the program, the options available for its use, the decision processes whereby the forecast is constructed, the output of the program, and plans for its use. In addition, examples are shown of worded forecasts covering a variety of weather situations.