News

Weather service storm forecasts get more localized

By Seth Borenstein
Published September 30, 2014 7:25pm ET
Add Washington Examiner on Google
Weather service storm forecasts get more localized
These handout images provided by NOAA shows a comparison of two weather forecast models for the New Jersey area. At left shows the forecast that doesn't distinguish local hazardous weather. At right shows the High Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model that clearly depicts where local thunderstorms, yellow and red coloring are likely. The National Weather Service can now give better, faster and more pinpointed severe weather forecasts because of new computer simulations. The weather service on Tuesday started using a new high resolution computer model that officials say will dramatically improve forecasts of storms up to 15 hours ahead of time. They say the more rapidly updating simulations will save lives with better warning for tornadoes, thunderstorms and blizzards. (AP Photo/NOAA) | AP

WASHINGTON (AP) — The next time some nasty storms are heading your way, the National Weather Service says it will have a better forecast of just how close they could come to you.

The weather service on Tuesday started using a new high resolution computer model that officials say will dramatically improve forecasts for storms up to 15 hours in advance. It should better pinpoint where and when tornadoes, thunderstorms and blizzards are expected, so people could take cover.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.

Tag:

Nation