Improving the Short-Range Precipitation Forecast of Numerical Weather Prediction through a Deep Learning-Based Mask Approach

Due to various technical issues,existing numerical weather prediction(NWP)models often perform poorly at forecasting rainfall in the first several hours.To correct the bias of an NWP model and improve the accuracy of short-range precipitation forecasting,we propose a deep learning-based approach called UNet Mask,which combines NWP forecasts with the output of a convolutional neural network called UNet.The UNet Mask involves training the UNet on historical data from the NWP model and gridded rainfall observations for 6-hour precipitation forecasting.The overlap of the UNet output and the NWP forecasts at the same rainfall threshold yields a mask.The UNet Mask blends the UNet output and the NWP forecasts by taking the maximum between them and passing through the mask,which provides the corrected 6-hour rainfall forecasts.We evaluated UNet Mask on a test set and in real-time verification.The results showed that UNet Mask outperforms the NWP model in 6-hour precipitation prediction by reducing the FAR and improving CSI scores.Sensitivity tests also showed that different small rainfall thresholds applied to the UNet and the NWP model have different effects on UNet Mask's forecast performance.This study shows that UNet Mask is a promising approach for improving rainfall forecasting of NWP models.

Progresses of Researches on Numerical Weather Prediction in China: 1999-2002

The recent progresses in the research and development of (NWP) in China are reviewed in this paper. The most impressive achievements are the development of direct assimilation of satellite irradiances with a 3DVAR (three-dimentional variational) data assimilation system and a non-hydrostatic modei with a semi-Lagrangian semi-implicit scheme. Progresses have also been made in modei physics and modei application to precipitation and environmental forecasts. Some scientific issues of great importance for further development are discussed.

Numerical Weather Prediction in China in the New Century——Progress,Problems and Prospects

This paper summarizes the recent progress of numerical weather prediction （NWP） research since the last review was published. The new generation NWP system named GRAPES （the Global and Regional Assimilation and Prediction System）, which consists of variational or sequential data assimilation and nonhydrostatic prediction model with options of configuration for either global or regional domains, is briefly introduced, with stress on their scientific design and preliminary results during pre-operational implementation. In addition to the development of GRAPES, the achievements in new methodologies of data assimilation, new improvements of model physics such as parameterization of clouds and planetary boundary layer, mesoscale ensemble prediction system and numerical prediction of air quality are presented. The scientific issues which should be emphasized for the future are discussed finally.

Analogue correction method of errors and its application to numerical weather prediction

In this paper, an analogue correction method of errors （ACE） based on a complicated atmospheric model is further developed and applied to numerical weather prediction （NWP）. The analysis shows that the ACE can effectively reduce model errors by combining the statistical analogue method with the dynamical model together in order that the information of plenty of historical data is utilized in the current complicated NWP model, Furthermore, in the ACE, the differences of the similarities between different historical analogues and the current initial state are considered as the weights for estimating model errors. The results of daily, decad and monthly prediction experiments on a complicated T63 atmospheric model show that the performance of the ACE by correcting model errors based on the estimation of the errors of 4 historical analogue predictions is not only better than that of the scheme of only introducing the correction of the errors of every single analogue prediction, but is also better than that of the T63 model.

An approach to estimating and extrapolating model error based on inverse problem methods:towards accurate numerical weather prediction

Model error is one of the key factors restricting the accuracy of numerical weather prediction （NWP）. Considering the continuous evolution of the atmosphere, the observed data （ignoring the measurement error） can be viewed as a series of solutions of an accurate model governing the actual atmosphere. Model error is represented as an unknown term in the accurate model, thus NWP can be considered as an inverse problem to uncover the unknown error term. The inverse problem models can absorb long periods of observed data to generate model error correction procedures. They thus resolve the deficiency and faultiness of the NWP schemes employing only the initial-time data. In this study we construct two inverse problem models to estimate and extrapolate the time-varying and spatial-varying model errors in both the historical and forecast periods by using recent observations and analogue phenomena of the atmosphere. Numerical experiment on Burgers＇ equation has illustrated the substantial forecast improvement using inverse problem algorithms. The proposed inverse problem methods of suppressing NWP errors will be useful in future high accuracy applications of NWP.

A Forecast Error Correction Method in Numerical Weather Prediction by Using Recent Multiple-time Evolution Data

The initial value error and the imperfect numerical model are usually considered as error sources of numerical weather prediction （NWP）. By using past multi-time observations and model output, this study proposes a method to estimate imperfect numerical model error. This method can be inversely estimated through expressing the model error as a Lagrange interpolation polynomial, while the coefficients of polyno- mial are determined by past model performance. However, for practical application in the full NWP model, it is necessary to determine the following criteria： （1） the length of past data sufficient for estimation of the model errors, （2） a proper method of estimating the term ＂model integration with the exact solution＂ when solving the inverse problem, and （3） the extent to which this scheme is sensitive to the observational errors. In this study, such issues are resolved using a simple linear model, and an advection diffusion model is applied to discuss the sensitivity of the method to an artificial error source. The results indicate that the forecast errors can be largely reduced using the proposed method if the proper length of past data is chosen. To address the three problems, it is determined that （1） a few data limited by the order of the corrector can be used, （2） trapezoidal approximation can be employed to estimate the ＂term＂ in this study; however, a more accurate method should be explored for an operational NWP model, and （3） the correction is sensitive to observational error.

Probability Forecast of Regional Landslide Based on Numerical Weather Forecast

The regional forecast of landslide is one of the key points of hazard mitigation. It is also a hot and difficult point in research field. To solve this problem has become urgent task along with Chinese economy fast development. This paper analyzes the principle of regional landslide forecast and the factors for forecasting. The method of a combination of Information Value Model and Extension Model has been put forward to be as the forecast model. Using new result of Numerical Weather Foreeast Research and that combination model, we discuss the implementation feasibility of regional landslide forecast. Finally, with the help of Geographic Information System, an operation system for southwest of China landslide forecast has been developed. It can carry out regional landslide forecast daily and has been pilot run in NMC. Since this is the first time linking theoretical research with meteorological service, further works are needed to enhance it.

System of Multigrid Nonlinear Least-squares Four-dimensional Variational Data Assimilation for Numerical Weather Prediction(SNAP):System Formulation and Preliminary Evaluation

A new forecasting system-the System of Multigrid Nonlinear Least-squares Four-dimensional Variational(NLS-4DVar)Data Assimilation for Numerical Weather Prediction(SNAP)-was established by building upon the multigrid NLS-4DVar data assimilation scheme,the operational Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation(GSI)−based data-processing and observation operators,and the widely used Weather Research and Forecasting numerical model.Drawing upon lessons learned from the superiority of the operational GSI analysis system,for its various observation operators and the ability to assimilate multiple-source observations,SNAP adopts GSI-based data-processing and observation operator modules to compute the observation innovations.The multigrid NLS-4DVar assimilation framework is used for the analysis,which can adequately correct errors from large to small scales and accelerate iteration solutions.The analysis variables are model state variables,rather than the control variables adopted in the conventional 4DVar system.Currently,we have achieved the assimilation of conventional observations,and we will continue to improve the assimilation of radar and satellite observations in the future.SNAP was evaluated by case evaluation experiments and one-week cycling assimilation experiments.In the case evaluation experiments,two six-hour time windows were established for assimilation experiments and precipitation forecasts were verified against hourly precipitation observations from more than 2400 national observation sites.This showed that SNAP can absorb observations and improve the initial field,thereby improving the precipitation forecast.In the one-week cycling assimilation experiments,six-hourly assimilation cycles were run in one week.SNAP produced slightly lower forecast RMSEs than the GSI 4DEnVar(Four-dimensional Ensemble Variational)as a whole and the threat scores of precipitation forecasts initialized from the analysis of SNAP were higher than those obtained from the analysis of GSI 4DEnVar.

Parameterized Forward Operators for Simulation and Assimilation of Polarimetric Radar Data with Numerical Weather Predictions

Many weather radar networks in the world have now provided polarimetric radar data(PRD)that have the potential to improve our understanding of cloud and precipitation microphysics,and numerical weather prediction(NWP).To realize this potential,an accurate and efficient set of polarimetric observation operators are needed to simulate and assimilate the PRD with an NWP model for an accurate analysis of the model state variables.For this purpose,a set of parameterized observation operators are developed to simulate and assimilate polarimetric radar data from NWP model-predicted hydrometeor mixing ratios and number concentrations of rain,snow,hail,and graupel.The polarimetric radar variables are calculated based on the T-matrix calculation of wave scattering and integrations of the scattering weighted by the particle size distribution.The calculated polarimetric variables are then fitted to simple functions of water content and volumeweighted mean diameter of the hydrometeor particle size distribution.The parameterized PRD operators are applied to an ideal case and a real case predicted by the Weather Research and Forecasting(WRF)model to have simulated PRD,which are compared with existing operators and real observations to show their validity and applicability.The new PRD operators use less than one percent of the computing time of the old operators to complete the same simulations,making it efficient in PRD simulation and assimilation usage.

EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE ROLE OF INITIAL AND BOUNDARY CONDITIONS IN MESOSCALE NUMERICAL WEATHER PREDICTION

Based on the real case of a frontal precipitation process affecting South China, 27 controlled numerical experiments was made for the effects of hydrostatic and non-hydrostatic effects, different driving models, combinations of initial/boundary conditions, updates of lateral values and initial time levels of forecast, on model predictions. Features about the impact of initial/boundary conditions on mesoscale numerical weather prediction (NWP) model are analyzed and discussed in detail. Some theoretically and practically valuable conclusions are drawn. It is found that the overall tendency of mesoscale NWP models is governed by its driving model, with the initial conditions showing remarkable impacts on mesoscale models for the first I0 hours of the predictions while leaving lateral boundary conditions to take care the period beyond; the latter affect the inner area of mesoscale predictions mainly through the propagation and movement of weather signals (waves) of different time scales; initial values of external model parameters such as soil moisture content may affect predictions of more longer time validity, while fast signals may be filtered away and only information with time scale 4 times as large as or more than the updated period of boundary values may be introduced, through lateral boundary, to mesoseale models, etc. Some results may be taken as important guidance on mesoseale model and its data a.ssimilation developments of the future.

Statistical downscaling of numerical weather prediction based on convolutional neural networks

Numerical Weather Prediction(NWP)is a necessary input for short-term wind power forecasting.Existing NWP models are all based on purely physical models.This requires mainframe computers to perform large-scale numerical calculations and the technical threshold of the assimilation process is high.There is a need to further improve the timeliness and accuracy of the assimilation process.In order to solve the above problems,NWP method based on artificial intelligence is proposed in this paper.It uses a convolutional neural network algorithm and a downscaling model from the global background field to establish a given wind turbine hub height position.We considered the actual data of a wind farm in north China as an example to analyze the calculation example.The results show that the prediction accuracy of the proposed method is equivalent to that of the traditional purely physical model.The prediction accuracy in some months is better than that of the purely physical model,and the calculation efficiency is considerably improved.The validity and advantages of the proposed method are verified from the results,and the traditional NWP method is replaced to a certain extent.

A stamp based exploration framework for numerical weather forecast

Numerical weather simulation data usually comprises various meteorological variables, such as precipitation, temperature and pressure. In practical applications, data generated with several different numerical simulation models are usually used together by forecasters to generate the final forecast. However, it is difficult for forecasters to obtain a clear view of all the data due to its complexity. This has been a great limitation for domain experts to take advantage of all the data in their routine work. In order to help explore the multi-variate and multi-model data, we propose a stamp based exploration framework to assist domain experts in analyzing the data. The framework is used to assist domain experts in detecting the bias patterns between numerical simulation data and observation data. The exploration pipeline originates from a single meteorological variable and extends to multiple variables under the guidance of a designed stamp board. Regional data patterns can be detected by analyzing distinctive stamps on the board or generating extending stamps using the Boolean set operations. Experiment results show that some meteorological phenomena and regional data patterns can be easily detected through the exploration. These can help domain experts conduct the data analysis efficiently and further guide forecasters in producing reliable weather forecast.

Chen-Chao Koo and the Early Numerical Weather Prediction Experiments in China

Although the first successful numerical weather prediction(NWP)project led by Charney and von Neumann is widely known,little is known by the international community about the development of NWP during the 1950s in China.Here,a detailed historical perspective on the early NWP experiments in China is provided.The leadership in NWP of the late Professor Chen-Chao Koo,a protége of C.G.Rossby at the University of Stockholm during the late 1940s and a key leader of modern meteorology(particularly of atmospheric dynamics and physics)in China during the 1950s−70s,is highlighted.The unique contributions to NWP by Koo and his students,such as the ideas of formulating NWP as an“evolution”problem,in which the past data over multiple time steps are utilized,rather than an initial-value problem,and on the cybernetic aspects of atmospheric processes,i.e.,regarding the motion of the atmosphere at various time scales as an optimal control system,are also emphasized.

Hydrological Evaluation with SWAT Model and Numerical Weather Prediction for Flash Flood Warning System in Thailand

Flash floods are a natural disaster that occurs annually, especially in the mountainous terrain and steep slopes of northern Thailand. The current flood forecasting systems and tools are available but have low accuracy and efficiency. The numbers of rainfall and runoff stations are less, because the access to the station area is difficult. Additionally, the operation and maintenance costs are high. Hydrological modeling of a SWAT （Soil and Water Assessment Tool） was used in this study with the application of three days weather forecast from the NWP （numerical weather prediction）, which provided temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, sunshine and wind speed. The data from NWP and SWAT were used to simulate the runoff from the Nan River in the last 10 years （2000-2010）. It was found that the simulated flow rate for the main streams using data from NWP were higher than the observations. At the N64 and Nl stations, the ratios of the maximum simulated flow rate to the observations were equal to 108% and 118%, respectively. However, for the tributaries, it was found that the simulated flow rate using NWP data was lower than the observations, but, it was still within the acceptable range of not greater than 20%,6. At N65, D090201 and D090203 stations, the ratio of the maximum simulated flow rate were 90.0%, 83.0% and 86.0%, respectively. This was due to the rainfall from the NWP model being greater than the measured rainfall. The NWP rainfall was distributed all over the area while the rainfall data from the measurements were obtained from specific points. Therefore, the rain from the NWP model is very useful especially for the watershed areas without rain gauge stations. In summary, the data from the NWP can be used with the SWAT model and provides relatively sound results despite the value for the main river being slightly higher than the observed data. Consequently, the output can be used to create a flood map for flash flood warning in the area.

Research and Operational Development of Numerical Weather Prediction in China

Numerical weather prediction(NWP) is a core technology in weather forecast and disaster mitigation. China’s NWP research and operational applications have been attached great importance by the meteorological community.Fundamental achievements have been made in the theories, methods, and NWP model development in China, which are of certain international impacts. In this paper, the scientific and technological progress of NWP in China since1949 is summarized. The current status and recent progress of the domestically developed NWP system-GRAPES(Global/Regional Assimilation and Pr Ediction System) are presented. Through independent research and development in the past 10 years, the operational GRAPES system has been established, which includes both regional and global deterministic and ensemble prediction models, with resolutions of 3-10 km for regional and 25-50 km for global forecasts. Major improvements include establishment of a new non-hydrostatic dynamic core, setup of four-dimensional variational data assimilation, and development of associated satellite application. As members of the GRAPES system, prediction models for atmospheric chemistry and air pollution, tropical cyclones, and ocean waves have also been developed and put into operational use. The GRAPES system has been an important milestone in NWP science and technology in China.

Large tropical cyclone track forecast errors of global numerical weather prediction models in western North Pacific basin

Although tropical cyclone(TC)track forecast errors(TFEs)of operational warning centres have substantially decreased in recent decades,there are still many cases with large TFEs.The International Grand Global Ensemble(TIGGE)data are used to study the possible reasons for the large TFE cases and to compare the performance of different numerical weather prediction(NWP)models.Forty-four TCs in the western North Pacific during the period 2007-2014 with TFEs(+24 to+120 h)larger than the 75 th percentile of the annual error distribution(with a total of 93 cases)are identified.Four categories of situations are found to be associated with large TFEs.These include the interaction of the outer structure of the TC with tropical weather systems,the intensity of the TC,the extension of the subtropical high(SH)and the interaction with the westerly trough.The crucial factor of each category attributed to the large TFE is discussed.Among the TIGGE model predictions,the models of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts and the UK Met Office generally have a smaller TFE.The performance of different models in different situations is discussed.

Numerical weather modeling-based slant tropospheric delay estimation and its enhancement by GNSS data

Unmitigated tropospheric delay is one of the major error sources in precise point positioning(PPP).Precise Slant Tropospheric Delay(STD)estimation could help to provide cleaner observables for PPP,and improve its convergence,accuracy,and stability.STD is difficult to model accurately due to the rapid spatial and temporal variation of the water vapor in the troposphere.In the traditional approach,the STD is mapped from the zenith direction,which assumes a spherically symmetric local tropospheric profile and has limitations.In this paper,a new approach of directly estimating the STD from high resolution numerical weather modeling(NWM)products is introduced.This approach benefits from the best available meteorological information to improve real time STD estimation,with the RMS residual lower than 3.5 cm above 15°elevation,and 2 cm above 30°.Therefore,the new method can provide sufficient accuracy to improve PPP convergence time.To improve the performance of the new method in highly variable tropospheric conditions,a correction scheme is proposed which combines NWM information with multi-GNSS observations from a network of local continuously operating reference stations.It is demonstrated through a case study that this correction scheme is quite effective in reducing the STD estimation residuals and PPP convergence time.

THE MEDIUM-RANGE NUMERICAL WEATHER PREDICTION OPERATION SYSTEM IN THE CHINA NATIONAL METEOROLOGICAL CENTER

It is not only meteorological problems for the medium-range numerical weather prediction (NWP) research to be in operation,but also engineering and technological problems.Here we gener- ally described the results of research,engineering construction,operation information and testing,in the course of set-up of medium-range NWP operation system in the China National Meteorological Center.

PROGRESS OF NUMERICAL WEATHER PREDICTION IN CHINA IN THE PAST DECADE

Review and analysis of NWP in China in the past decade have been made.Also comparisons have been done between NWP ten years ago and that of today from different aspects.From them it can be seen how rapid the progress was made during that period.Finally the differences between the advanced world level and ours in areas of NWP are estimated and the steps we should take are suggested.