Toward the Standardization of Mesoscale Meteorological Networks

Authors

Christopher Fiebrich, University of OklahomaFollow
Kevin Brinson, University of DelawareFollow
Rezaul Mahmood, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Stuart Foster, Western Kentucky UniversityFollow
Megan Schargorodski, Western Kentucky UniversityFollow
Nathan L. Edwards, South Dakota State UniversityFollow
Christopher A. Redmond, Kansas State UniversityFollow
Jennie R. Atkins, University of Illinois at Urbana–ChampaignFollow
Jeffrey Andresen, Michigan State UniversityFollow
Xiaomao Lin, Kansas State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

11-2020

Citation

JOURNAL OF ATMOSPHERIC AND OCEANIC TECHNOLOGY, VOLUME 37 (Nov 2020), pp 2033-2049

DOI: 10.1175/JTECH-D-20-0078.1

Comments

Copyright © 2020 American Meteorological Society. Used by permission.

Abstract

Although they share many common qualities in design and operation, mesonetworks across the United States were established independently and organically over the last several decades. In numerous instances, the unique ways each network matured and developed new protocols has led to important lessons learned. These experiences have been shared in informal ways among various network operators over the years to promote reliable operation. As existing networks begin to introduce new sensors and technologies, and as new networks come online, there is a common need for guidance on best practices. This paper aims to formally provide recommendations to improve and harmonize the various aspects of operating a ‘‘mesonet,’’ including siting, sensors, maintenance, quality assurance, and data processing.