Catchment Modeling and Initial Parameter Estimation for the National Weather Service River Forecast System

Catchment Modeling and Initial Parameter Estimation for the National Weather Service River Forecast System
Author: Eugene L. Peck
Publisher:
Total Pages: 92
Release: 1976
Genre: Hydrological forecasting
ISBN:

The system (NWSRFS) of conceptual hydrologic models and other procedures, used in the operational river forecasting program of the United States National Weather Service, is briefly described. Complete information on the system as it existed in 1972 was published. However, since then the operational system has been expanded and revised frequently. Information on new procedures will be published in the technical literature. A major revision has been made in the soil moisture accounting for the catchment model. The components for soil moisture accounting of the Sacramento Model have replaced those of the modified Stanford Model as used in the original system. The conceptual features and characteristics of the Sacramento Model are discussed. The demonstration in the workshop of this symposium will be limited to the catchment model.

Toward a New Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS)

Toward a New Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS)
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 84
Release: 2006-06-28
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0309180775

The National Weather Service (NWS) is responsible for providing flood forecasts and warnings in the United States. The agency established the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services (AHPS) program in 1997 to advance technology for hydrologic services, specifically to provide accurate forecasts that support timely warnings for all users of hydrologic predictions. AHPS strives to provide information at the right time to facilitate adequate responses to mitigate damages to life, livelihoods, and property. AHPS is slated to be fully implemented nationwide in 2013. With seven years still remaining in its development and implementation timeline, a review of the program now is critical to providing NWS with information it needs to maximize the effectiveness of the AHPS program. This report assesses AHPS in respect to hydrologic science and technology research, river routing and mechanics, "systems" engineering aspects, and implementation. Overall, this report finds AHPS to be an ambitious program that promises to provide services and products that are timely and necessary. The report calls for AHPS to develop a detailed and comprehensive, multi-year implementation plan and for the program's goals and budget to be brought into closer alignment.