STORM FORECASTING

Abstract

Slovenia belongs among those areas with the highest storm activity in the world. Hail causes considerable damage to both crops and property. Therefore, accurate short-term forecasts and early warnings of intense convective activity are of great value. Short term forecasting and nowcasting is a branch of weather forecasting with emphasis on local details in a time range up to 12 hours ahead. Nowcasting techniques integrate information on the state of the atmosphere from various sources: numerical models, remote sensing devices such as satellites and weather radars, ground measurements and radio sounds. Since the time of action is very limited, a detailed plan of action on both the forecaster’s and the end-user’s side is needed. A forecasting and decision-making process must be established. Another important issue is media policy. Some unpleasant experiences have been recorded in relation to extensive publicity in the nowcasting process (30th June 1998).