NOAA aircraft examine tropical disturbance for signs of development – Hurricane Research Division

In late August 2022, both NOAA P-3s and its G-IV jet are engaging in a series of missions to examine an area of disturbed weather over the tropical Atlantic. As part of the Impact of Targeted Observations on Forecasts (ITOFs) project scientists are examining such tropical waves to learn why some of them form into tropical cyclones while others do not.

The disturbance, designated AL91, has been slower to develop than the computer models had predicted. HRD scientist want to know why. By examining the data they collect they hope to improve genesis forecasts in the future. One interesting part of the late mission on August 30th was the opportunity to overfly the NOAA Saildrone and release a dropsonde near it. This will allow the scientists to compare the aircraft readings with the sonde sounding and the Saildrone’s surface measurements.

For the latest information about tropical cyclones and other weather systems, please visit the NOAA/NWS/National Hurricane Center.

Media inquiries should be directed to AOML Communications (aoml.communications@noaa.gov), Monica Allen (301-734-1123) or Monica.Allen@noaa.gov.

DISCLAIMER: The above discussion is intended to provide a brief summary of recent and future HRD Hurricane Field Program Operations. Any use of this material beyond its original intent is prohibited without permission of the HRD Director, Frank Marks (Frank.Marks@noaa.gov).