Automated Streamline Analysis Utilizing “Optimum Interpolation”

Abstract

A program for automated streamline analysis is described based an ?optimum interpolation? techniques. Streamlines may be directly interpolated from irregularly timed and spaced wind observations. Smoothing of the wind analysis because of random observational errors can be included, and an estimate of the quality of the analysis as a function of the density and accuracy of the observations way also be derived. The interpolation method is demonstrated with sample streamline maps, and some are compared with those prepared operationally, at 250 mb, for the tropical Pacific. Occasional differences between the two analyses occur in regions of poor data coverage; otherwise, there is general agreement. This technique can also be applied easily to describe other wind field parameters such as streamfunctions, vorticity, divergence, etc.