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Abstract

The Use of NRT Altimeter Wind and Wave Products at ECMWF

Dr Saleh ABDALLA(1), Dr Peter JANSSEN(1), Dr Jean-Raymond BIDLOT(1)

(1) ECMWF, United Kingdom

Session theme: Near Real Time Products and Applications

  • oral

    Abstract

    Wind and wave measurements from radar altimeters are invaluable source of information for operational ocean-wave as well as (surface-) atmospheric predictions. Altimeter significant wave height (SWH) is assimilated directly in the ocean wave component of the ECMWF Integrated Forecast System (IFS). SWH from altimeters onboard ERS-1/2, Envisat and Jason-1/2 were/are assimilated. The positive impact of such assimilation is not limited to the ocean wave products but extends to the atmosphere through the two way coupling.

    Altimeter wind and wave data are also used to assess the performance of the IFS. They are also used for the verification of the model updates. If there is an issue in the model or the update, this is usually reflected in the comparison statistics between the model and the altimeter products.

    Such uses will de described and discussed with reference to related cases.

     
    Corresponding author:

      Dr Saleh Abdalla
      ECMWF
      ECMWF,
      Shinfield Park
      RG2 9AX Reading
      United Kingdom
      E-mail:
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