The proficiency of high resolution vs. coarse vs.statistical forecast models

The field of broadcast meteorology has played a vital role in interpreting weather patterns and communicating forecasts to the public. The track in Broadcast Meteorology at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science has allowed me to take an in-depth look at a career that infuses both the fields of atmospheric science and communication. When forecasting for a viewing area, meteorologists utilize numerous models in order to create the most precise weathercast possible. The goal of this project was to successfully determine which models should be used to make the most accurate forecast without spending time searching through extraneous data. Over 46 days, high temperature, low temperature, rainfall total, and maximum sustained wind speed projections were recorded for Miami, Florida from KMIA at Miami International Airport using one high-resolution forecast model, two coarse forecast models, and one statistical forecast model to analyze. Results showed that the statistical model was more accurate in forecasting both high and low temperatures. The high-resolution model was the most accurate in regards to forecasting maximum sustained wind speed. One of the coarse models was most accurate in predicting the total amount of rainfall. The results of this research can be used to assist meteorologists in South Florida in forecasting for the area in a more efficient manner