Weather Model Background ● The WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) model had been developed by various research and governmental agencies became the National Weather Services main forecast model in ● Regional real-time WRF runs have been operational at the U of A since the summer of 2004 in support of weather research programs, regional monsoon thunderstorm forecasts, and winter terrain enhanced precipitation forecasts.

U of A Regional WRF Modifications ● Modified model configuration with values that work best in the Southwest US. ● 1.8 to 3 KM model resolution to resolve small scale meteorological and terrain features. ● Modified model's starting conditions with local data for better forecasts. ● Modified model's land surface scheme using results from ASU's work. This produces more accurate near surface temperatures.

Lower Temperatures due to Terrain Blocking of the Winds