Forecasting the Impacts of Strong Wintertime Post-Cold Front Winds in the Northern Plains

Abstract

Strong post-cold front wind events in the northern plains of the United States are a difficult problem for operational forecasters. The various atmospheric ingredients that lead to these events are examined from an operational point of view. Indications that are evident in analyses and prognoses are identified and placed in an operational checklist. From the checklist, a numerical rating of the potential strength of a developing situation is derived. This rating can assist the forecaster in deciding what type of watch or warning to issue. Application of the checklist to the strong post-cold front wind event of 10 January 1990 is demonstrated.