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Weather Links

 

Here are several web resources that we use frequently while storm chasing. We typically look over all weather model data in the days leading up to a severe weather event, and then re-evaluate the models on the morning of a chase. Once storms fire, we continuously monitor Realtime Data, the SPC, and the HRRR. In Canada, be sure to check out weather resources from Environment Canada

National Weather Service

Realtime Data

Programs

  • Radarscope – Low-cost super-resolution radar solution for Mac, iPhone, and Android. This is a must-have for any chaser.

  • GR2Analyst – We strongly recommend this product for serious chasers. When configured properly, GR2AE provides the most timely radar updates, and is the most versatile analysis tool. We strictly prefer Level-2 super-resolution data. 

  • GRLevel3 – Low-resolution Level-3 data (however velocity data is close to super-resolution). We use it most frequently for its VWP plots. 

  • SHARPpy – Useful for displaying observed and modeled sounding data. Works on Mac, Linux, and PC.

  • GpsGate – Allows an external GPS to be shared across multiple programs in Windows. We also recommend paper maps!

  • Spotter Network – Report the severe weather that you observe!

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Numerical Weather Prediction Models:​

  • Non-government model graphic websites: these are run by individuals, organizations, and educational institutions. You can find some of the above models as well as medium and long range models here.

    • College of DuPage – SHARPpy soundings, ultra long-range CFS maps… get that hypetrain chugging early.

    • Tropical Tidbits – Lots of international models. NAM 4, 12, and 36km maps. Worldwide regions.

    • Pivotal Weather – Point and click SHARPpy soundings, and a unique variety of numerical models.

    • Twisterdata – Tried and true, reliable, nice graphics.

    • Earl’s Models – Basic page with model graphics you won’t find anywhere else.

    • Wunderground ECMWF Maps – The only source for free full-resolution ECMWF (European Model) maps. 

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For Post-Event Analysis

  • NCDC Radar Archive – Look back at any weather event through the mid-1990s.

  • Iowa State Radar Archive – If you’re looking back at an event that occurred in the past 3 days, you can get your Level 2 radar data here.

  • SPC Mesoanalysis Archive – Looking for full-resolution SPC mesoscale analysis data from a past event? SPC might have it archived here.

  • University of Wyoming Soundings – Look up soundings from past events worldwide. The text files can be conformed to be used with SHARPpy.

International Links

Other Interesting Links

 

  • CIMSS Tropical Cyclones – Worldwide data for tropical cyclones.

  • Cyclone Phase Diagrams – Cool but very technical diagrams from FSU showing the evolution of cyclones.

  • MODIS Today – 250m resolution full-color satellite images of the CONUS taken twice daily by the Terra and Aqua POES (polar orbiting) satellites.

Lightning, Severy KS supercell, Simila CO tornado, Wyoming supercell, Burwell NE tornadic supercell
Rozel, KS tornado at sunset

About Us

The Science behind Atmospheric Chaos

We are a team of meteorologists, data analysts, social scientists and storm chasers - dedicated to sharing our knowledge about weathering the storms.  At Atmospheric Chaos, we believe that education is key to being prepared for severe weather events. Our mission is to provide communities, businesses, and individuals with the tools and resources needed to act quickly and effectively in the face of a severe weather emergency.

 

 Our team of experts is dedicated to sharing the latest information and best practices to help you to better understand how to read the skies; and training on how to use radar apps and analyze weather images like the pros, so that you can confidently make decisions to help protect yourself and others during even the most extreme conditions.

Lightning from severe thunderstorm near Marysville, KS

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supercell thunderstorm at sunset near Protection, KS

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