The MDSS products and GUI were well received. There is a desire to have
several other data sets integrated with an MDSS including radar and satellite
products, alert notification (cell, pager, e-mail etc.). There was a discussion of
how this is the path that the commercial sector should certainly move along.
Observed that the MDSS "nails the bigger storms". It also did pretty well on
precipitation timing (when it knows about an event). Some weaker events were
missed, particularly early in the demonstration period and when the mesoscale
models were unavailable.
Discussed how the MDSS is an integrated test bed of methods, techniques, and
algorithms that are designed to compliment and not compete with commercial
sector offerings. Commercial entities should combine their best technologies with
those demonstrated in the MDSS to improve the overall services provided to the
DOTs.
Paul Durham - Garage Supervisor, Ames, IADOT (Feb 25, 2004)
Indicated that significant progress was seen between last year and this year. His
staff very much likes the MDSS capabilities and it is viewed by staff as becoming
very credible. The staff sees great potential for the MDSS technology. He is
concerned that the program may fade away just when it is getting its feet.
The staff would very much like to see the program continue as "you are on the
edge of having something very special that will significantly support our decision
making". Reiterated that the "golden goose" would be for MDSS to incorporate
actual treatments directly into the system. This capability should be included in
commercial offerings.
The MDSS is doing much better overall than the first winter.
Discussed the 15-hr period for the high-resolution models. Paul reiterated that the
most critical forecast of the day occurs between 12 PM and 3 PM when they make
their plans for that night and the following morning.
Paul liked the blowing snow alert product and was supportive of the adjustments
made to the sensitivity of the blowing snow alert.
They believe that a "human in the loop" should be included in an operational
service as it would improve the chances of catching some otherwise missed events
and provide for some analysis.
The garage has an increasing "mass" of weather information to sift through. In the
old days, you looked out the window. Then, they waited for the local news to see
158
Previous Page
