Assignment 2: Weather Predictions

1. Assignment 2: Weather Predictions J. “Noah” Gariepy MET 101

2. (KEAR) Kearney, NE 7/2/14 12Z-7/4/14 12Z

5. Observations I believe that I made the correct assumption in that based on the data I acquired that the National Weather Service was correct. Based on the infrared images, the Doppler radar, and the 500mb Map, I was correct in guessing that the weather front would lead to precipitation (although not as much as I expected). I focused on Kearney, NE as it appeared that the storm would go right over the town. While it did, it didn’t receive the amount of rain that I expected (although it will be getting much more rain in the next few days). The infrared radar shows that there was in fact a large cloud system overhead by showing the different clouds above and the Doppler radar shows that there was in fact precipitation by showing the light blue lines. Upon analyzing the 500mb map, I have concluded that the storm was on the eastern edge of a trough because of the lines right by the town in Nebraska. Upon looking at the METAR data for Kearney, NE, one can tell that the humidity is above 50% and that the temperature is in the 60’s. The precipitation has clearly caused the town to cool off and become humid due to the rain.

6. Reflection By applying what we have learned about cold fronts and applying it to modern day weather, I have been able to better grasp the idea of cold fronts and troughs. When you are able to apply the material to your own life, the concept becomes easier to understand. I think what I got most out of this assignment out of cold fronts is that they move significantly slower then I initially realized. It’s been 48 hours and the rain and clouds haven’t moved that much in comparison. I also noticed that there had been a storm advisory for the Kearney area due to heavy precipitation and the possibility of flooding. This also made it more relatable as I connected it to the monsoons that I would live with when I was in Arizona. Cold fronts (and warm fronts) are easily relatable to my life because they’re the reason that we get the rain that we do. And since rain is my favorite form of weather, I can now better anticipate for rain in the future!