Atmospheric Practical

This course gives an introduction to the forecasting cycle, i.e. the process of getting from weather data and –models to a forecast for different end-users.
To this end, the course first deals with the processing, analysis, synthesis and presentation of large amounts of meteorological data, i.e. both synoptic and aerological observations, satellite, weather radar observations, and model output. Thereto students learn to work with a meteorological workstation and basic Python scripts. Furthermore, students analyse the structure of weather systems on the synoptic scale and mesoscale and apply theory to estimate the magnitude of atmospheric quantities.Subsequently, this course also deals with the analysis and interpretation of model output leading to weather forecasting, as weather models have become a vital element therein. Thereafter, the course addresses the final step in the forecast cycle, i.e. how to effectively communicate the weather forecast to different customers and media. Finally, a number of meteorological and/or climatological research centres in Germany are visited in order to gain insight into weather forecasting practices, current research and job opportunities in this field.

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:

• identify and recognize the different types of meteorological data and how often these are available;
• modify, analyse and interpret different types of meteorological data;
• explain and discuss the relation between several atmospheric quantities varying in space and time;
• monitor, observe and analyse the weather situation, and perform a professional forecast using real-time or historical data;
• communicate a weather forecast for different customers groups and media;
• discriminate and evaluate the research performed at the various research facilities offering meteorological services, education and data abroad (Germany);
• appraise the career perspective, research activities, meteorological disseminated data and services provided by EUMETSAT, or similar institutes in Germany.

Assumed Knowledge:
MAQ10306 Introduction Atmosphere, MAQ21806 Meteorology and Climate