Theory and observations to understand mid-latitude weather
systems. Focus is on application of quasi-geostrophic
theory in weather forecasting. Analysis and interpretation
of weather maps and numerical models. Development and life
cycle of cyclones, fronts, and jet streams.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Additional assignments, readings, and test questions.
Athena Title
Synoptic Meteorol and Climatol
Prerequisite
ATSC(GEOG) 3120-3120L or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to describe the role of atmospheric circulation in the climate system, with a focus on the synoptic and dynamics of mid-latitude weather systems.
Students will learn to effectively employ advanced analysis tools in weather forecasting, with a focus on mid-latitude weather systems.
By the end of the course, students will be expected to cogently employ fundamental conceptual models to diagnose the genesis and evolution of cyclones.
Students are expected to formulate and effectively communicate a weather discussion in oral and written forms.
Topical Outline
Forecast Processes
Isentropic Analysis
Convective Weather
Principles of Convection I: Buoyancy and CAPE
Principles of Convection II: Using Hodographs
Principles of Convection III: Shear and Convective Storms
Severe Convection II: Mesoscale Convective Systems
Quantity of Precipitation Forecasting
Quantity of Precipitation Forecasting Overview
Winter Weather Forecasting
Topics in Precipitation Type Forecasting
Freezing and Melting, Precipitation Type and Numerical weather prediction
Lake Effect Snow
Jet Streaks
Jet Streak Circulations
Numerical weather prediction
How mesoscale models work
Model fundamentals
Operational model matrix
Intelligent use of model products
Mid-latitude cyclones
QG forcing of vertical motions
Evolution and motion of mid-trop waves, 500mb steering
Cyclogenesis
Alternative expressions for divergence
Sutcliffe, Trenberth approx.
Cyclone evolution and climatology
Airflow through cyclones
Institutional Competencies
Analytical Thinking
The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.
