The modeling/assimilation group at the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological
Studies (CIMSS) are heavy users of gridded fields from the CONDUIT data stream.
We currently use the following grids in real-time:
1) GFS (grib2), one degree and half degree. Used to initialize forecast
models and to provide backgrounds for satellite retrievals
2) RUC (grib2), 20 km, for model initialization
3) NAM 40km (grib2), for model comparisons
Our priority is timeliness. Higher resolution grids are preferred if their delivery time
is not degraded. We are currently using the 20 km RUC to initialize an hourly
"nearcast" assimilation system. This system needs the hourly RUC fields on
time. If the 13km RUC is delivered considerably later (~15min), we can't use it. If the
13 km RUC can be delivered at the same time then we will use it. The 40 km NAM is used
for a model comparison study only. We can always generate coarse mesh NAM grids from the
native grids.
Comments on possible "new items":
We would like to see the Real Time Mesoscale Analyses.
