4. Forecast Applications

Winter Weather » Precipitation Type Introduction and Relevant Parameters

Introduction

Forecasting precipitation type is one of the major operational challenges during the cool season. A change of as little as 1°C in surface temperature can result in a major ice or snow storm, as opposed to a rather benign rain event. Analysis of a skew-T and associated precipitation type parameters can yield important clues for forecasting precipitation type, as illustrated in the following exercise.

Relevant Parameters: