OFFICE OF THE FEDERAL COORDINATOR FOR

METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES AND SUPPORTING RESEARCH

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE/ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Washington, DC

May 2009

National Hurricane

Operations Plan

FCM-P12-2009

Hurricane Dolly - 23 July 2008 - NOAA's GOES 12
 

THE FEDERAL COMMITTEE FOR 

 METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES AND SUPPORTING RESEARCH (FCMSSR) 

DR. JANE LUBCHENCO 

Chairman, Department of Commerce 

(VACANT) 

Office of Science and Technology Policy 

DR. RAYMOND MOTHA 

Department of Agriculture 

DR. JOHN (JACK) L. HAYES 

Department of Commerce 

MR. ALAN SHAFFER 

Department of Defense 

DR. ANNA PALMISANO 

Department of Energy 

MR. KEVIN (SPANKY) KIRSCH 

Science and Technology Directorate 

Department of Homeland Security 

DR. HERBERT FROST 

Department of the Interior 

MR. KENNETH HODGKINS 

Department of State 

MR. RANDOLPH LYON 

Office of Management and Budget 

MS. VICTORIA COX 

Department of Transportation 

MR. MICHAEL BUCKLEY (Acting) 

Federal Emergency Management Agency 

Department of Homeland Security 

DR. EDWARD WEILER 

National Aeronautics and Space 

 Administration 

DR. TIM KILLEEN 

National Science Foundation 

MR. PAUL MISENCIK 

National Transportation Safety Board 

MR. JAMES LYONS 

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 

DR. LAWRENCE REITER 

Environmental Protection Agency 

MR. SAMUEL P. WILLIAMSON 

Federal Coordinator MR. MICHAEL BABCOCK, Secretariat 

 Office of the Federal Coordinator for 

 Meteorological Services and Supporting Research 

 THE INTERDEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEE FOR 

METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES AND SUPPORTING RESEARCH (ICMSSR) 

 

MR. SAMUEL P. WILLIAMSON, Chairman 

Federal Coordinator 

MR. THOMAS PUTERBAUGH 

Department of Agriculture 

MS. VICKIE NADOLSKI 

Department of Commerce 

RADM DAVID A. GOVE, USN 

United States Navy 

Department of Defense 

DR. FRED P. LEWIS 

United States Air Force 

Department of Defense 

MR. RICKEY PETTY 

Department of Energy 

MR. KEVIN (SPANKY) KIRSCH 

Science and Technology Directorate 

Department of Homeland Security 

MR. JOHN VIMONT 

Department of the Interior 

MR. ROBERT ARNOLD 

Federal Highway Administration 

Department of Transportation 

MR. KENNETH M. LEONARD 

Federal Aviation Administration 

Department of Transportation 

DR. JONATHAN M. BERKSON 

United States Coast Guard 

Department of Homeland Security 

DR. NORMAN BARTH 

Department of State 

DR. S. T. RAO 

Environmental Protection Agency 

MR. DANIEL CATLETT 

Federal Emergency Management Agency 

Department of Homeland Security 

DR. RAMESH KAKAR 

National Aeronautics and Space 

 Administration 

DR. JARVIS MOYERS 

National Science Foundation 

MR. DONALD E. EICK 

National Transportation Safety Board 

MS. JOCELYN MITCHELL 

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 

MS. GRACE HU 

Office of Management and Budget 

 MR. MICHAEL BABCOCK, Secretariat 

 Office of the Federal Coordinator for 

 Meteorological Services and Supporting Research 

 
FEDERAL COORDINATOR 

FOR 

METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES AND SUPPORTING RESEARCH

8455 Colesville Road, Suite 1500 

Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 

301-427-2002 

www.ofcm.gov 

NATIONAL HURRICANE OPERATIONS PLAN

FCM-P12-2009 

Washington, D.C. 

May 2009
ii 

CHANGE AND REVIEW LOG

Use this page to record changes and notices of reviews. 

Change 

Number 

Page 

Numbers 

Date 

Posted Initial 

 1 

 2 

 3 

 4 

 5 

Changes are indicated by a vertical line in the margin next to the change or by shading and 

strikeouts. 

Review Date Comments Initial 

 
iii 

FOREWORD 

The Interdepartmental Hurricane Conference (IHC) is sponsored annually by the Office of the 

Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting Research (OFCM) to provide a 

forum for the responsible Federal agencies, together with representatives from the user 

communities like emergency management, to review the Nation’s hurricane forecast and warning 

program and to make recommendations on how to improve the program in the future. The major 

objective is to plan and prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. The 63rd IHC was held in St. 

Petersburg, Florida, March 2-5, 2009, and the new procedures, procedural changes, and 

agreements reached at the conference were incorporated into this publication—the 47th edition of 

the National Hurricane Operations Plan (NHOP). 

At the 63rd IHC, there were 19 new actions items stemming from the meeting of the Working 

Group for Hurricane and Winter Storms Operations and Research. Of those, 12 items (mostly 

informational) will be closed through incorporation into the 2009 NHOP as approved 

recommendations and/or changes. Five items were informational in nature which did not require 

any action. Two items (plus four open actions from previous IHCs) will be worked through 

follow-on actions by the group. Detailed descriptions of the action items are available on the 

OFCM’s web site at http://www.ofcm.gov/homepage/text/spc_proj/ihc.html. 

The following summarizes the 2008 tropical cyclone season: 

 For the 2008 Atlantic hurricane season, there were 16 named storms. Eight of these 

storms became hurricanes, including five major hurricanes. This was above the long-term 

averages of 11, 6 and 2. Four of the five major hurricanes reached category 4 status, with 

the remaining major hurricane reaching category 3 status. Of note, Hurricanes Gustav and 

Ike struck the U. S. as Category 2 hurricanes, while Dolly struck as a Category 1. Gustav 

and Ike produced at least 40 and 29 tornadoes, respectively. Ike was the fourth costliest 

landfalling U. S. hurricane and its extratropical remains caused hurricane-force wind 

gusts and damage across the Ohio Valley. 

 For the Eastern North Pacific, there were an above average number of tropical storms 

(16). However, there was a below average number of hurricanes (seven) and major 

hurricanes (two). One hurricane (Norbert) and one tropical storm (Julio) made landfall in 

Mexico—a near-average number of landfalls. 

 The other tropical cyclone basins supported by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center and 

Joint Typhoon Warning Center had the following tropical cyclone activity in 2008 (25-

year averages are noted in parenthesis): Central Pacific – 1 (5); Northwest Pacific – 27 

(31); South Pacific – 8 (6); Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal – 7 (5); South Indian Ocean 

and Australian Region – 21 (23). 

The multiagency efforts—from both civilian and military organizations—that are part of the 

tropical cyclone forecast and warning system, once again provided outstanding support to their 

customers, helping to prevent loss of life and injuries and to reduce vulnerability to these 

devastating storms. 

 //SIGNED// 

Samuel P. Williamson 

Federal Coordinator for Meteorological 

 Services and Supporting Research 

v 

NATIONAL HURRICANE OPERATIONS PLAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

CHANGE AND REVIEW LOG................................................................................................. ii 

FOREWORD................................................................................................................................ iii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................... v 

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 1-1 

1.1. General............................................................................................................. 1-1 

1.2. Scope ............................................................................................................. 1-1 

CHAPTER 2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF COOPERATING FEDERAL 

 AGENCIES..................................................................................................... 2-1 

2.1. General ................................................................................................. 2-1 

2.2. DOC Responsibilities........................................................................... 2-1 

2.3. DOD Responsibilities........................................................................... 2-3 

2.4. DOT/DHS Responsibilities.................................................................. 2-4 

2.5. Annual Liaison with Other Nations ..................................................... 2-5 

2.6. Air Traffic Control/Flight Operations Coordination............................ 2-6 

CHAPTER 3 GENERAL OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURES OF THE NATIONAL 

WEATHER SERVICE HURRICANE CENTERS .................................... 3-1 

3.1. General ................................................................................................. 3-1 

3.2. Products................................................................................................ 3-1 

3.3. Designation of Tropical and Subtropical Cyclones.............................. 3-4 

3.4. Transfer of Warning Responsibility..................................................... 3-6 

3.5. Alternate Warning Responsibilities ..................................................... 3-6 

3.6. Abbreviated Communications Headings............................................ 3-10 

3.7. Hurricane Liaison Team (HLT) ......................................................... 3-12 

CHAPTER 4 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PRODUCTS FOR THE 

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE................................................................... 4-1 

4.1. General ................................................................................................. 4-1 

4.2. Observations......................................................................................... 4-1 

4.3. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisories................................................. 4-1 

CHAPTER 5 AIRCRAFT RECONNAISSANCE.............................................................. 5-1 

5.1. General ................................................................................................. 5-1 

5.2. Responsibilities .................................................................................... 5-1 

5.3. Control of Aircraft................................................................................ 5-3 

5.4. Reconnaissance Requirements ............................................................. 5-3 

5.5. Reconnaissance Planning and Flight Notification ............................... 5-9 

5.6. Reconnaissance Effectiveness Criteria............................................... 5-20 
vi 

5.7. Aerial Reconnaissance Weather Encoding, Reporting, 

and Coordination................................................................................ 5-21 

5.8. Operational Flight Patterns................................................................. 5-24 

5.9. Aircraft Reconnaissance Communications ........................................ 5-27 

CHAPTER 6 SATELLITE SURVEILLANCE OF TROPICAL AND SUBTROPICAL 

CYCLONES ................................................................................................... 6-1 

6.1. Satellites ............................................................................................... 6-1 

6.2. National Weather Service (NWS) Support .......................................... 6-4 

6.3. NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch (SAB)........................................... 6-4 

6.4. Air Force Support and the Defense Meteorological 

Satellite Program (DMSP) ................................................................... 6-6 

6.5. Satellites and Satellite Data Availability for the 

Current Hurricane Season .................................................................... 6-6 

6.6. Current Intensity and Tropical Classification Number ........................ 6-6 

CHAPTER 7 SURFACE RADAR REPORTING.............................................................. 7-1 

7.1. General ................................................................................................. 7-1 

7.2. The WSR-88D...................................................................................... 7-1 

7.3. Procedures ............................................................................................ 7-1 

CHAPTER 8 NATIONAL DATA BUOY CAPABILITIES AND 

 REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................... 8-1 

8.1. General ................................................................................................. 8-1 

8.2. Requests for Drifting Buoy Deployment ............................................. 8-2 

8.3. Communications................................................................................... 8-2 

CHAPTER 9 MARINE WEATHER BROADCASTS ...................................................... 9-1 

9.1. General ................................................................................................. 9-1 

9.2. Global Maritime Distress and Safety System 

(GMDSS) ............................................................................................. 9-1 

9.3. Coastal Maritime Safety Broadcasts .................................................... 9-1 

9.4. High Seas Broadcasts........................................................................... 9-2 

9.5. Additional Information......................................................................... 9-3 

CHAPTER 10 PUBLICITY ................................................................................................. 10-1 

10.1. News Media Releases......................................................................... 10-1 

10.2. Distribution......................................................................................... 10-1 
vii 

APPENDIX A LOCAL NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE (NWS) 

 OFFICE PRODUCTS ................................................................................... A-1 

APPENDIX B DEFINING POINTS FOR TROPICAL CYCLONE WATCHES/ 

WARNINGS...................................................................................................B-1 

APPENDIX C JOINT TYPHOON WARNING CENTER (JTWC) BULLETINS..........C-1 

APPENDIX D FORMAT FOR NHOP/NWSOP FLIGHT INFORMATION FOR 

INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC NOTAM ISSUANCE ................ D-1 

APPENDIX E SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE ...............................................E-1 

APPENDIX F OFFICIAL INTERAGENCY AGREEMENTS .........................................F-1 

APPENDIX G RECCO, HDOB, AND TEMP DROP CODES, TABLES, AND 

REGULATIONS........................................................................................... G-1 

APPENDIX H WSR-88D OPERATIONS PLAN FOR TROPICAL CYCLONE 

 EVENTS ....................................................................................................... H-1 

APPENDIX I TELEPHONE LISTING................................................................................I-1 

APPENDIX J GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINING POINTS AND PHONETIC 

PRONUNCIATION........................................................................................J-1 

APPENDIX K ACRONYMS/ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................. K-1 

APPENDIX L GLOSSARY ...................................................................................................L-1 

APPENDIX M DISTRIBUTION...........................................................................................M-1 
viii 

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

1-1. Tropical Cyclone Forecast Centers' Areas of Responsibility ................................. 1-2 

2-1. Typhoon Nakri, May 29, 2008................................................................................ 2-1 

4-1. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory Format.......................................................... 4-4 

4-2. Tropical Cyclone Public Advisory Format............................................................. 4-5 

5-1. WC-130J Weather Reconnaissance Aircraft .......................................................... 5-2 

5-2. G-IV Weather Surveillance Aircraft....................................................................... 5-2 

5-3. NOAA P-3 Weather Surveillance Aircraft ............................................................. 5-2 

5-4. Vortex Data Message Worksheet............................................................................ 5-6 

5-5. Example Vortex Data Message (VDM) for the WC-130J...................................... 5-9 

5-6. NHOP Coordinated Request for Aircraft Reconnaissance ................................... 5-10 

5-7. Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day Format ............................................................ 5-11 

5-8. Mission Evaluation Form...................................................................................... 5-22 

5-9. Flight Pattern ALPHA ........................................................................................ 5-25 

5-10. Suggested Patterns for Investigative Missions ..................................................... 5-27 

5-11. Schematic of Aircraft-to-Satellite Data Link for NOAA P-3 Aircraft ................. 5-29 

5-12. Schematic of Aircraft-to-Satellite Data Link for AFRC WC-130 Aircraft .......... 5-30 

6-1. The GOES Satellite System.................................................................................... 6-5 

8-1. Example Buoy and Float Deployment Pattern........................................................ 8-3 

G-1. Reconnaissance Code Recording Form ................................................................. G-2 

G-2. HDOB Description and Sample Message.............................................................. G-6 

G-3. Example TEMP DROP Message for Tropical Cyclones..................................... G-15 
ix 

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

3-1. Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Names........................................................................... 3-7 

3-2. Eastern Pacific Tropical Cyclone Names ............................................................... 3-8 

3-3. Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Names................................................................ 3-9 

3-4. International Tropical Cyclone Names for the Western Pacific and 

 South China Sea.................................................................................................... 3-10 

3-5. Summary of Products and their Associated WMO Header .................................. 3-11 

5-1. Requirements for Aircraft Reconnaissance Data.................................................... 5-5 

5-2. Vortex Data Message Entry Explanation................................................................ 5-7 

5-3. Elements of the Mission Identifier........................................................................ 5-23 

5-4. Examples of Corrected Observations.................................................................... 5-24 

6-1. Communications Headings for SAB Dvorak Analysis Products............................ 6-6 

6-2. Satellite and Satellite Data Availability for the Current Hurricane Season............ 6-7 

6-3. The Empirical Relationship between the C.I. Number and the Maximum 

 Wind Speed and the Relationship between the T-Number and the Minimum 

 Sea-Level Pressure ................................................................................................. 6-9 

7-1. Participating Radar Stations.................................................................................... 7-2 

G-l. Reconnaissance Code Tables................................................................................. G-3 

G-2. Reconnaissance Code Regulations ........................................................................ G-5 

G-3. Communications Headers for HDOB Messages.................................................... G-7 

G-4. Mission/Ob Identifier Line Format for HDOB Messages ..................................... G-7 

G-5 HD/HA Data Line Format for HDOB Messages................................................... G-8 

G-6. TEMP DROP Code.............................................................................................. G-10 

1-1 

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1. General. The tropical cyclone warning service is an interdepartmental effort to provide 

the United States and designated international recipients with forecasts, warnings, and 

assessments concerning tropical and subtropical weather systems. The National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the Department of Commerce (DOC) is responsible for 

providing forecasts and warnings for the Atlantic and Eastern and Central Pacific Oceans while 

the Department of Defense (DOD) provides the same services for the Western Pacific and Indian 

Ocean (see Figure 1-1). NOAA, along with other Federal agencies such as the U.S. Navy and 

the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), also conducts supporting research 

efforts to improve tropical cyclone forecast and warning services. The bottom line—this 

interdepartmental cooperation achieves economy and efficiency in the provision of the tropical 

cyclone forecast and warning services to the Nation. The National Hurricane Operations Plan

provides the basis for implementing agreements reached at the Interdepartmental Hurricane 

Conference (IHC), which is sponsored annually by the Office of the Federal Coordinator for 

Meteorological Services and Supporting Research. The goal of the IHC is to bring together the 

responsible Federal agencies to achieve agreement on items of mutual concern related to tropical 

cyclone forecast and warning services for the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. 

1.2. Scope. The procedures and agreements contained herein apply to the Atlantic Ocean, 

Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. The plan defines the roles of individual 

agencies, participating in the tropical cyclone forecast and warning program when more than one 

agency is involved in the delivery of service in any specific area. When a single agency is 

involved in any specific area, that agency's procedures should be contained in internal documents 

and, to the extent possible, be consistent with NHOP practices and procedures. Please note that 

under the National Weather Service Modernization Plan, the former National Hurricane Center 

(NHC) was incorporated into the Tropical Prediction Center (TPC), one of the seven serviceoriented centers and two central support activities that comprise the National Centers for 

Environmental Prediction (NCEP)—formerly the National Meteorological Center. The tropical 

cyclone warning mission still resides with the NHC (Hurricane Specialist Unit), which is a major 

component of the TPC. For completeness, the NHC will be referred to as TPC/NHC throughout 

the document. 
1-2 

Figure 1-1. Tropical Cyclone Forecast Centers' Areas of Responsibility
2-1

CHAPTER 2

RESPONSIBILITIES OF COOPERATING FEDERAL AGENCIES

2.1. General. The Department of Commerce (DOC), through the National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is charged with the overall responsibility to implement a 

responsive, effective national tropical cyclone warning service. Many local, state, and Federal 

agencies play a vital role in this system; their cooperative efforts help ensure that necessary 

preparedness actions are taken to minimize loss of life and destruction of property. The joint 

participation by the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Transportation (DOT), 

and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) with the DOC 

brings to bear those Federal resources considered essential for storm detection and accurate 

forecasting. This cooperative effort has proven to be a cost-effective, highly responsive 

endeavor to meet national requirements for tropical cyclone warning information. 

Figure 2-1. Typhoon Nakri, Northeast of the Philippines, May 29, 2008. Credit: NOAA

2.2. DOC Responsibilities. 

2.2.1. Forecast and Warning Services. The DOC will provide timely dissemination of 

forecasts, warnings, and all significant information regarding tropical and subtropical cyclones to 

the appropriate agencies, marine and aviation interests, and the general public. 
2-2

2.2.2. Support to DOD. Through NOAA's National Weather Service (NWS), the DOC 

will: 

 Consult, as necessary, with the DOD regarding their day-to-day requirements 

for forecast/advisory services and attempt to meet these requirements within 

the capabilities of the tropical cyclone warning service. 

 Provide, through the Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center 

(TPC/NHC), the coordinated DOC requirements for weather reconnaissance 

and other meteorological data to be acquired by the DOD on tropical or 

subtropical cyclones and disturbances. 

 Provide facilities, administrative support, and the means to disseminate 

meteorological data for the Chief, Aerial Reconnaissance Coordination, All 

Hurricanes (CARCAH) as agreed to by the DOC and DOD. 

 Provide the DOD with basic meteorological information, warnings, forecasts, 

and associated prognostic reasoning concerning location, intensity, and 

forecast movement of tropical and subtropical cyclones in the following 

maritime areas, including the adjacent states and possessions of the United 

States: 

 Atlantic Ocean (north of the equator including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf 

of Mexico). Advisories are the responsibility of the Director, TPC/NHC, 

Miami, FL. The TPC/NHC will consult with the Naval Atlantic 

Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NAVLANTMETOCCEN), 

Norfolk, VA, prior to issuing initial and final advisories and prior to issuing 

any advisory that indicates a significant change in forecast of intensity or 

track from the previous advisory. Exchange of information is encouraged 

on subsequent warnings when significant changes are made or otherwise 

required. 

 Eastern Pacific Ocean (north of the equator and east of 140°W). Advisories 

are the responsibility of the Director, TPC/NHC, Miami, FL. The 

TPC/NHC will consult with the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), 

Pearl Harbor, HI, prior to issuing initial and final advisories and prior to 

issuing any advisory that indicates a significant change in forecast of 

intensity or track from the previous advisory. Exchange of information is 

encouraged on subsequent warnings when significant changes are made or 

otherwise required. 

 Central Pacific Ocean (north of the equator between 140°W and 180°). 

Advisories are the responsibility of the Director, Central Pacific Hurricane 

Center (CPHC), Honolulu, HI. In addition to the main Hawaiian Islands, 

CPHC also issues watches and warnings for Johnston Atoll, Midway, and 

the northwest Hawaiian Islands. The CPHC will consult with JTWC prior 

to issuing initial and final advisories and prior to issuing any advisory that 
2-3

indicates a significant change in forecast of intensity or track from the 

previous advisory. Exchange of information is encouraged on subsequent 

warnings when significant changes are made or otherwise required. 

 West Pacific Ocean (Guam and Micronesia). Public advisories are prepared 

by the NWS Weather Forecast Office (WFO) Guam, using the tropical 

cyclone forecasts/advisories prepared by JTWC as guidance. WFO Guam 

issues watches and warnings for all tropical cyclones affecting the Territory 

of Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, the Republic of 

Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall 

Islands. 

2.2.3. Post Analysis of Tropical Cyclones. The DOC, through NWS, will conduct an 

annual post analysis for all tropical cyclones in the Atlantic and the Pacific regions east of 180° 

and prepare an annual hurricane report for issue to interested agencies. 

2.2.4. Environmental Satellite Systems. The National Environmental Satellite, Data, 

and Information Service (NESDIS) will: 

 Operate DOC environmental satellite systems capable of providing coverage of 

meteorological conditions in the tropics during the tropical cyclone season, and 

monitor and interpret DOC satellite imagery. 

 Obtain, as necessary, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) 

research and development satellite data and Defense Meteorological Satellite 

Program (DMSP) data for NWS operational use and to comply with TPC/NHC 

and CPHC satellite data requirements. 

 Provide surveillance support with fixes and/or intensity estimates to the Joint 

Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), TPC/NHC, and CPHC through analysis of 

all available satellite imagery. 

2.2.5. Data Buoy Systems. Through the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC), the DOC 

will, subject to available funding, develop, deploy, and operate environmental data buoy systems 

and automated coastal stations to support the data requirements of TPC/NHC and CPHC. 

2.2.6. Weather Reconnaissance. Through the NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation 

Operations (OMAO), DOC will provide weather reconnaissance flights, including synoptic 

surveillance, as specified in Chapter 5, unless relieved of these responsibilities by the 

Administrator of NOAA. 

2.3. DOD Responsibilities. The DOD will: 

 Disseminate significant meteorological information on tropical and subtropical 

cyclones to the NWS in a timely manner. 

 Provide TPC/NHC and CPHC current DOD requirements for tropical and subtropical 

cyclone advisories. 

 Meet DOC requirements for aircraft reconnaissance and other special observations as 
2-4

agreed to by DOD and DOC (see Appendix F). 

 Provide at TPC/NHC a 24-hour aircraft operations interface—Chief, Aerial 

Reconnaissance Coordination, All Hurricanes (CARCAH). 

 Designate CARCAH as the liaison to TPC/NHC. CARCAH will serve as 

TPC/NHC's point of contact to request special DOD observations in support of this 

plan (e.g., additional upper-air observations). 

 Provide weather reconnaissance data monitor services to evaluate and disseminate 

reconnaissance reports. 

 Provide surveillance support with fixes and/or intensity estimates to the Central 

Pacific Hurricane Center through analysis of available satellite imagery. The support 

is provided by the 17th Operational Weather Squadron Meteorological Satellite 

Operations (SATOPS) Flight (17 OWS/WXJ), Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Pearl 

Harbor, HI, and is focused on the Indian Ocean and the Central, South, and Northwest 

Pacific Ocean. 

 Western Pacific Ocean (north of the equator): Provide NWS with basic 

meteorological information, forecasts, and associated prognostic reasoning, 

concerning location, intensity, wind distribution, and forecast movement of tropical 

cyclones for the Northwest Pacific west of 180o

. JTWC will consult with WFO 

Guam regarding all tropical cyclones affecting Micronesia and Guam. Consultation 

will occur prior to issuing initial and final advisories and prior to issuing any advisory 

that indicates a significant change in forecast intensity or track from the previous 

advisory. 

 Initiate, monitor, and update satellite invest areas on the tropical cyclone satellite 

websites provided by the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center 

(FNMOC) and the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), Monterey, California. 

TPC/NHC and CPHC will coordinate with JTWC on the initiation of desired invest 

areas and will provide JTWC numbers for invest areas as required. 

 Deploy, through the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), drifting data 

buoys in support of Commander-in-Chief, Atlantic Fleet (CINCLANTFLT) 

requirements. 

2.4. DOT and DHS Responsibilities. 

2.4.1. Information Dissemination. The DOT will provide NWS with timely 

dissemination of significant information received regarding tropical and subtropical cyclones. 

2.4.2. Flight Assistance. Through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the 

DOT will provide air traffic control, communications, and flight assistance services. 

2.4.3. U. S. Coast Guard. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will provide 

the following through the U.S. Coast Guard: 
2-5

 Personnel, vessel, and communications support to the NDBC for development, 

deployment, and operation of moored environmental data buoy systems. 

 Surface observations to NWS from selected coastal facilities and vessels. 

 Communications circuits for relay of weather observations to NWS in selected 

areas. 

 Coastal broadcast facilities at selected locations for tropical storm or hurricane 

forecasts and warnings. 

2.5. Annual Liaison with Other Nations. 

2.5.1. The DOD, DOC, and DOT will cooperate in arranging an annual trip to the 

Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico area to carry out a continuing and effective liaison with the 

directors of meteorological services, air traffic control agencies, and disaster preparedness 

agencies of nations in those areas, regarding the provision of tropical cyclone warning services. 

Due to the international importance of this mission, the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) 

and TPC/NHC will jointly plan and execute this mission annually. The TPC/NHC will 

coordinate with the meteorological services in the countries to be visited. 

2.5.2. This annual liaison trip is known as the Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour 

(CHAT). It takes place in the United States Southern and Northern Command’s area of 

responsibility and supports its mission of promoting stability, collective security, and defending 

U.S. regional interests. The WC-130 aircraft flown by the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance 

Squadron (53rd WRS) “Hurricane Hunters” is the most visible symbol of this awareness 

program; it serves as an educational platform and as a media focus for both dignitaries and the 

local populace. Tours of the aircraft demonstrate the critical partnership between DOD and 

NOAA during the preparation of a tropical cyclone forecast. The CHAT increases public 

awareness of the hurricane threat and serves to recognize and strengthen national and 

international teamwork for storm warning and emergency response. 

2.5.3. This diplomatic mission is unique in character and purpose. This joint AFRC and 

NOAA mission demonstrates the concerted U.S. effort to execute its hurricane program and is 

illustrates the importance the U.S. places on hurricane forecasting, tracking, and warning. The 

CHAT helps communicate the U.S. responsibilities in the region and it highlights the vital roles 

of NOAA and 53rd WRS. The media’s role is to document the trip and promote the hurricane 

preparedness message, thus providing visibility to this important outreach activity both 

nationally and internationally. 

2.5.4. The synergy created by all participants traveling together on the 53rd WRS WC130 aircraft is essential to efficiently accomplishing the overall objectives of the mission while 

exercising fiscal responsibility. AFRC will fly the mission and issue invitational travel orders 

(ITO) on a noninterference, non-reimbursable basis for: the Director of the Tropical Prediction 

Center (TPC)/National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the National Weather Service (NWS) 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce 

(DOC); the NHC Hurricane Warning Program staff, NWS staff, other U.S. officials, and the 

media. 
2-6

2.6. Air Traffic Control/Flight Operations Coordination. The operations officers of the 

principal flying units, the Assistant Manager, Operations, Air Traffic Control System Command 

Center, Herndon, VA, and the assistant managers for traffic management or assistant manager 

for military operations, as appropriate, at key Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) will 

maintain a close working relationship on a continuing basis to ensure mission success under 

actual tropical storm conditions. This will involve visits to each other's facilities, familiarization 

flights, and telephone and electronic communications to improve the understanding of each 

other's requirements and capabilities. 

2.6.1. Gulf of Mexico Weather Reconnaissance. The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance 

Squadron and the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center operations officers will maintain a close 

working relationship with the Air Traffic Control System Command Center, the ARTCCs, and 

the Fleet Aerial Control and Surveillance Facility (FACSFAC) for the coordination of weather 

reconnaissance flights in the Gulf of Mexico and over the Caribbean Sea in particular, and in the 

United States in general. The operations officers will: 

 Request the assistance of the appropriate ARTCC/FACSFAC in support of the 

National Hurricane Operations Plan. 

 Provide the current operations officer's name and telephone number to the 

appropriate ARTCC and FACSFAC. 

 Publish the unit's telephone numbers [Defense Switched Network 

(DSN)/Commercial]). 

2.6.2. Air Traffic Control Assistance. The Air Traffic Control System Command 

Center, appropriate ARTCCs, and FACSFAC will maintain a close working relationship with the 

weather reconnaissance units and provide airspace and air traffic control assistance to the extent 

possible. Those organizations will: 

 Provide the current names and telephone numbers of points of contact to the 

flying units. 

 Publish telephone numbers (DSN/Commercial). 
3-1 

CHAPTER 3 

GENERAL OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURES OF THE 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HURRICANE CENTERS

3.1. General. This chapter briefly describes the products, procedures, and communications 

headers used by the Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center (TPC/NHC) and the 

Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC). See Appendix A for a description of local National 

Weather Service (NWS) office products which support the tropical cyclone forecast and warning 

program. Additional details of the products, including transmission times, can be found in 

National Weather Service Instruction 10-601, located at: http://www.weather.gov/directives. 

3.2. Products. 

 3.2.1. Tropical Weather Outlook (TWO). TPC/NHC and CPHC prepare the TWO 

during their respective tropical cyclone seasons. The outlook covers tropical and subtropical 

waters and discusses areas of disturbed weather and the potential for tropical cyclone 

development during the next 48 hours. 

 3.2.2. Tropical Cyclone Public Advisories (TCP). The TCP is the primary tropical 

cyclone information product issued to the public. The TPC/NHC, the CPHC, and WFO Guam 

issue TCPs. The following pertains to the tropical storm/hurricane/typhoon watches and 

warnings contained in the TCP: 

 TPC/NHC. TPC/NHC issues tropical storm/hurricane watches/warnings for 

the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf of Mexico coasts of the continental United States, the US Virgin 

Islands, and Puerto Rico. TPC/NHC issues watches when conditions along the coast are 

expected within 36 hours. TPC/NHC issues warnings when conditions along the coast are 

expected within 24 hours. 

 CPHC and WFO Guam. CPHC and WFO Guam issues tropical 

storm/hurricane/typhoon watches/warnings for the islands of Hawaii, northwest Hawaiian 

Islands, Johnston Atoll, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and selected points in the Micronesian 

countries. CPHC and WFO Guam issue watches when conditions along the coast are expected 

within 48 hours. CPHC and WFO Guam issue warnings when conditions are possible along the 

coast within 36 hours.

 3.2.3. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisories (TCM). NHC/TPC and CPHC will 

prepare TCMs for all tropical cyclones within their area of responsibility. See Section 4.3 for 

content and format of the advisories. The TCM provides critical tropical cyclone watch, 

warning, and forecast information for the protection of life and property. 

Note: In the Western Pacific, tropical cyclone forecasts/advisories are issued by the JTWC. 

Appendix C provides a listing of the abbreviated communications headings and titles for JTWC 

products. Information on the broadcast of tropical cyclone information to coastal and high-seas 

shipping can be found in Chapter 9, Marine Weather Broadcasts. 

 3.2.4. Tropical Cyclone Discussions (TCD). NHC/TPC and CPHC issue TCDs to 
3-2 

explain forecaster’s reasoning behind analysis and forecast of the tropical cyclone. 

 3.2.5. Tropical Cyclone Updates (TCU). The TCU is an event-driven product which 

provides users with timely, succinct information on significant changes to tropical cyclone 

conditions. TCUs are issued to inform users of unexpected changes in a tropical cyclone, such as 

to convey a significant change in the intensity, and/or to alert users a special advisory is about to 

be issued. The TCU may also be used to announce changes to international watches or warnings 

made by other countries, and to cancel U.S. watches or warnings. A TCU should only be used to 

issue a U.S. watch or warning if that TCU precedes a special advisory that will contain the same 

watch/warning information, and indicates the special advisory will be issued shortly. 

 3.2.6. Tropical Cyclone Position Estimates (TCE). This product ensures a continuous 

flow of information regarding the center location of a tropical cyclone when it nears the coast 

and thus provides up to date location information to emergency managers and other public 

officials. The TCE is a brief alphanumeric product containing information derived from WSR88D radar or appropriate satellite data about tropical cyclone positions near coasts in 

latitude/longitude coordinates, distance, and direction from a well known point. 

 3.2.7. Graphical Tropical Cyclone Surface Wind Speed Probabilities. This 

graphical product portrays probabilistic surface wind speed information which will help users 

prepare for the potential of tropical storm or hurricane conditions. This product shows 

probabilities for three wind speed thresholds: 34, 50 and 64 knots. It provides cumulative 

probabilities through each 12 hour interval (e.g. 0 -12 hours, 0- 24 hours, etc.) from 0 through 

120 hours. They are available in graphical forms in a static and an animated display. These wind 

speed probabilities are based on the track, intensity, and wind structure uncertainties in the 

official forecasts from the tropical cyclone centers. 

 3.2.8. Tropical Cyclone Surface Wind Speed Probabilities Text Product (PWS). 

This product portrays probabilistic wind speed information helping users prepare for the 

potential of tropical storm or hurricane conditions. 

 The probabilities in this product are statistically based on the errors in the official track and 

intensity forecasts issued during the past five years by TPC/NHC and CPHC. Variability in 

tropical cyclone wind structure is also incorporated. New probability values are computed for 

each new official forecast issued by TPC/NHC or CPHC. 

 The first section of the product provides categorical maximum wind speed (intensity) 

probabilities at standard forecast hours (12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, and 120) for various intensity 

stages (dissipated, tropical depression, tropical storm and hurricane) and for the five categories 

on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. These probabilities apply to the maximum sustained 

surface wind associated with the cyclone, and not to winds that could occur at specific locations. 

 Probabilities for specific locations are provided in the second section for sustained wind 

speeds equal to or exceeding three wind speed thresholds: 34, 50 and 64 knots. Two types of 

probability values are provided in this table: individual period and cumulative. Individual period 

probabilities are provided for each of the following time intervals: 0-12 hours, 12-24 hours, 24-
3-3 

36 hours, 36-48 hours, 48-72 hours, 72-96 hours, and 96-120 hours. These individual period 

probabilities indicate the chance that the particular wind speed will start during each individual 

period at each location. Cumulative probabilities are produced for the following time periods: 

0-12 hours, 0-24 hours, 0-36 hours, 0-48 hours, 0-72 hours, 0-96 hours, and 0-120 hours. These 

cumulative probabilities indicate the overall chance the particular wind speed will occur at each 

location during the period between hour 0 and the forecast hour. 

 3.2.9. Tropical Cyclone Watch Warning Product (TCV). The TCV summarizes all 

new, continued, and cancelled tropical cyclone watches and warnings issued by the TPC/NHC 

for the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coast, southern California coast, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin 

Islands. The CPHC will issue a TCV for the main islands of the State of Hawaii. The product is 

issued each time a U. S. tropical cyclone watch and/or warning is issued, continued, or 

discontinued for all Atlantic, portions of the North East Pacific, and the North Central Pacific 

Ocean basin tropical cyclones. 

 3.2.10. Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC) Public Advisories (TCP). The 

National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s HPC issues public advisories after TPC/NHC 

discontinues its advisories on subtropical and tropical cyclones that have moved inland in the 

United States or Mexico, but still pose a threat of heavy rain and flash floods in the conterminous 

United States or Mexico. Content will refer to the decaying system’s position, intensity, general 

forecast trends, highlight impacts which occurred and are expected to occur (usually in relation 

to heavy rain/flooding and tornadoes), and indicate when the next summary will be issued. A 

table at the end of the message will provide forecast latitude and longitude of the remnant low. 

 3.2.11. Other Tropical Cyclone Products. Several other tropical cyclone related 

products are issued to support the tropical cyclone forecast and warning program. Refer to NWS 

Instruction 10-601, located at http://www.weather.gov/directives, for further details on these 

products, which include: 

 Satellite Interpretation Message (SIM). 

 Tropical Weather Discussion (TWD). 

 Tropical Weather Summary (TWS). 

 Tropical Cyclone Summary – Fixes (TCS). 

 Tropical Cyclone Danger Area Graphic 

 Aviation Tropical Cyclone Advisory (TCA) 

 Tropical Cyclone Reports (TCR) 

 Tropical Cyclone Track and Watch/Warning Graphic 

 Cumulative Wind Distribution 

 Tropical Cyclone Wind Field Graphic 

 Maximum Wind Speed Probability Table 

 Tropical Cyclone Storm Surge Probabilities 
3-4 

3.3. Designation of Tropical and Subtropical Cyclones. 

 3.3.1. Numbering of Tropical and Subtropical Depressions. The hurricane centers 

are responsible for numbering tropical and subtropical depressions in their areas of 

responsibility. Tropical depressions shall be numbered consecutively beginning each season 

with the spelled out number "ONE." For ease in differentiation, tropical depression numbers 

shall include the suffix "E" for Eastern Pacific, "C" for Central Pacific, or "W" for Western 

Pacific, after the number. In both the Atlantic and Pacific, once the depression has reached 

tropical storm intensity, it shall be named and the depression number dropped. The depression 

number will not be used again until the following year. Give tropical cyclones a name in the first 

advisory after intensifying to 34 knots (39 mph) or greater. In the Western Pacific, WFO Guam 

will use the JTWC cyclone number for all non-named systems. For RSMC Tokyo named 

systems, WFO Guam will use the RSMC Tokyo name with the associated JTWC number in 

parentheses. 

 The following rules apply for tropical cyclones passing from one basin to another: Retain the 

name if a tropical cyclone passes from one basin into another basin as a tropical cyclone; i.e., 

advisories are continuous. An unnamed tropical depression will also retain its number (e.g. 

Tropical Depression Six-E remains Tropical Depression Six-E) if it crosses into another area of 

responsibility. For unnamed tropical depressions moving from west to east across 180°, CPHC 

will use the associated Joint Typhoon Warning Center’s (JTWC) number and indicate JTWC in 

parentheses following the number. For named systems, CPHC will use the associated RSMC 

Tokyo name and provide the associated JTWC number in parentheses. 

 Within a basin, if the remnant of a tropical cyclone redevelops into a tropical cyclone, it is 

assigned its original number or name. If the remnants of a former tropical cyclone regenerate in 

a new basin, the regenerated tropical cyclone will be given a new designation. 

 3.3.1.1. Atlantic Basin. Depression numbers, ONE, TWO, THREE, will be 

assigned by the TPC/NHC after advising the Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography 

Center (NAVLANTMETOCCEN) Norfolk. 

 3.3.1.2. Pacific East of 140oW. Depression numbers, with the suffix E, e.g., 

ONE-E, TWO-E, THREE-E, will be assigned by the TPC/NHC after advising JTWC, Pearl 

Harbor, HI. The assigned identifier shall be retained even if the depression passes into another 

warning area.

 3.3.1.3. Pacific West of 140oW and East of 180o. Depression numbers, with 

suffix C; e.g., ONE-C, TWO-C, THREE-C, will be assigned by the CPHC after advising JTWC. 

 3.3.1.4. Pacific West of 180o and North of 0o. Depression numbers, with 

suffix W; e.g., ONE-W, TWO-W, THREE-W, are assigned by JTWC. 

 3.3.1.5. Subtropical Depressions. A single list of numbers and names will be 

used for all tropical and subtropical cyclones. Therefore, numbering of subtropical depressions 
3-5 

will follow the same procedure as tropical depressions. For example, if the first subtropical 

depression follows the first tropical depression, the subtropical depression will be given the 

designation SUBTROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO. If a subtropical depression becomes a 

subtropical storm, it receives the next available name in the tropical cyclone naming sequence. 

 3.3.2. Numbering and Naming of Tropical and Subtropical Cyclones.

 3.3.2.1. Numbering and Naming Tropical Cyclones. Tropical cyclone 

centers will number tropical depressions in their areas of responsibility. The centers will number 

tropical depressions consecutively beginning each season with the spelled out number “ONE.” 

In the north Pacific, for ease in differentiation, tropical depression numbers, assigned by NHC or 

CPHC, will include the suffix “E” for eastern (east of 140°W longitude) or “C,” for central (180° 

to 140°W longitude) respectively, after the number. In both the Atlantic and Pacific, once the 

depression reaches tropical storm intensity, name it and drop the depression number. The 

depression number will not be used again until the following year. Give tropical cyclones a 

name in the first advisory after intensifying to 34 knots (39 mph) or greater. In the Western 

Pacific, WFO Guam will use the JTWC cyclone number for all non-named systems. For RSMC 

Tokyo named systems, WFO Guam will use the RSMC Tokyo name with the associated JTWC 

number in parentheses. 

 The following rules apply for tropical cyclones passing from one basin to another: Retain the 

name if a tropical cyclone passes from one basin into another basin as a tropical cyclone; i.e. 

advisories are continuous. An unnamed tropical depression will also retain its number (e.g. 

Tropical Depression Six-E remains Tropical Depression Six-E) if it crosses into another area of 

responsibility. For unnamed tropical depressions moving from west to east across 180°, CPHC 

will use the associated Joint Typhoon Warning Center’s (JTWC) number and indicate JTWC in 

parentheses following the number. For named systems, CPHC will use the RSMC Tokyo name 

and provide the associated JTWC number in parentheses. 

 Within a basin, if the remnant of a tropical cyclone redevelops into a tropical cyclone, it is 

assigned its original number or name. If the remnants of a former tropical cyclone regenerate in 

a new basin, the regenerated tropical cyclone will be given a new designation. 

 3.3.2.2. Numbering and Naming Subtropical Storms. A single list of 

numbers and names will be used for all tropical and subtropical cyclones. Therefore, numbering 

of subtropical depressions will follow the same procedure as tropical depressions. For example, 

if the first subtropical depression follows the first tropical depression, the subtropical depression 

will be given the designation SUBTROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO. If a subtropical depression 

becomes a subtropical storm, it receives the next available name in the tropical cyclone naming 

sequence. 

 3.3.2.3. Numbering Advisories and Tropical/Subtropical Cyclone 

Discussions. Tropical and subtropical cyclone advisories and discussions in the Atlantic and the 

Pacific will be numbered similarly. Number scheduled and special advisories and TCDs 

consecutively beginning with the number 1 (not spelled out) for each new tropical or subtropical 

cyclone, and continue through the duration of the cyclone. In situations where only TCMs and 
3-6 

TCDs are being written (tropical cyclones in the eastern Pacific not threatening land) and at a 

later time a public advisory is required, the public advisory number will match the corresponding 

TCM. In both the Atlantic and the Pacific, intermediate advisories and TCDs will retain the 

advisory number of the scheduled or special advisory they update and append an alphabetic 

designator (e.g., “HURRICANE ALLISON INTERMEDIATE ADVISORY NUMBER 20A”). 

3.4. Transfer of Warning Responsibility.

 3.4.1. TPC/NHC to CPHC. When a tropical or subtropical cyclone approaches 140oW, 

the coordinated transfer of warning responsibility from TPC/NHC to CPHC will be made and the 

appropriate advisory issued. 

 3.4.2. CPHC to JTWC/(RSMC, Tokyo)/WFO Guam. When a tropical or subtropical 

cyclone crosses 180o from east to west, the coordinated transfer of warning responsibility from 

CPHC to JTWC will be made and the appropriate advisory issued. At the same time, the CPHC 

will coordinate with the RSMC, Tokyo and WFO Guam so that they are aware that CPHC will 

be suspending the issuance of advisories. 

 3.4.3. JTWC/RSMC, Tokyo to CPHC. When a tropical or subtropical cyclone crosses 

180o from west to east, the coordinated transfer of warning responsibility from JTWC to CPHC 

will be made. At the same time, the CPHC will coordinate with RSMC, Tokyo so that they are 

aware that CPHC will be assuming the issuance of advisories. 

3.5. Alternate Warning Responsibilities.

 3.5.1. Transfer to Alternate. In the event of impending or actual operational failure of 

a hurricane forecast center, tropical warning responsibilities will be transferred to an alternate 

facility in accordance with existing directives and retained there until resumption of 

responsibility can be made. Alternate facilities are as follows: 

PRIMARY ALTERNATE 

TPC/NHC

National Centers for Environmental Prediction 

Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC), 

Camp Springs, MD 

CPHC TPC/NHC

CARCAH 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (53 WRS)

JTWC Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography 

Center (FLENUMETOCCEN), Monterey, CA

WFO Guam CPHC

 3.5.2. Notification. The NAVLANTMETOCCEN, Norfolk, and JTWC, Pearl Harbor, 

will be advised by TPC/NHC, CARCAH, and CPHC, as appropriate, of impending or actual 

transfer of responsibility by the most rapid means available. JTWC will advise CPHC, 

TPC/NHC, and WFO Guam of impending or actual transfer of JTWC responsibilities. In the 

event of a CARCAH operational failure, direct communication is authorized between the 53 

WRS and the forecast facility. Contact 53 WRS at DSN 597-2409/228-377-2409 or through the 

Keesler AFB Command Post at DSN 597-4330/208-377-4330 (ask for the 53 WRS). 
3-7 

Table 3-1. Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Names 

2009

ANA 

BILL 

CLAUDETTE claw-DET 

DANNY 

ERIKA ERR-ree-ka 

FRED 

GRACE 

HENRI ahn-REE 

IDA 

JOAQUIN 

KATE 

LARRY 

MINDY 

NICHOLAS NIK-o-las 

ODETTE o-DET 

PETER 

ROSE 

SAM 

TERESA te-REE-sa 

VICTOR VIC-ter 

WANDA 

2010 

ALEX 

BONNIE 

COLIN 

DANIELLE dan-YELL 

EARL 

FIONA 

GASTON 

HERMINE her-MEEN 

IGOR e-GOR 

JULIA 

KARL 

LISA LEE-sa 

MATTHEW 

NICOLE ni-COLE 

OTTO 

PAULA 

RICHARD RICH-erd 

SHARY SHA-ree 

TOMAS to-MAS 

VIRGINIE vir-JIN-ee 

WALTER 

2011

ARLENE 

BRET 

CINDY 

DON 

EMILY 

FRANKLIN 

GERT 

HARVEY 

IRENE 

JOSE ho-ZAY 

KATIA ka-TEE-ah 

LEE 

MARIA ma-REE-ah 

NATE 

OPHELIA o-FEEL-ya 

PHILIPPE fe-leep 

RINA 

STAN 

TAMMY 

VINCE 

WHITNEY 

2012

ALBERTO al-BAIR-toe 

BERYL BER-ril 

CHRIS 

DEBBY 

ERNESTO er-NES-toe 

FLORENCE 

GORDON 

HELENE he-LEEN 

ISAAC EYE-zak 

JOYCE 

KIRK 

LESLIE 

MICHAEL MIKE-el 

NADINE nay-DEEN 

OSCAR 

PATTY 

RAFAEL ra-fa-EL 

SANDY 

TONY 

VALERIE 

WILLIAM 

2013

ANDREA 

BARRY 

CHANTAL shan-TAHL 

DORIAN 

ERIN AIR-in 

FERNAND 

GABRIELLE ga-bree-EL 

HUMBERTO oom-BAIR-to 

INGRID 

JERRY 

KAREN 

LORENZO 

MELISSA 

NESTOR 

OLGA 

PABLO PA-blow 

REBEKAH 

SEBASTIEN say-BAS-tyan 

TANYA TAHN-ya 

VAN 

WENDY 

2014 

ARTHUR 

BERTHA BUR-tha 

CRISTOBAL 

DOLLY 

EDOUARD eh-DWARD 

FAY 

GONZALO 

HANNA 

ISAIAS 

JOSEPHINE JO-ze-feen 

KYLE 

LAURA 

MARCO 

NANA 

OMAR 

PAULETTE 

RENE re-NAY 

SALLY 

TEDDY 

VICKY 

WILFRED 

If over 21 tropical cyclones occur in a year, the Greek alphabet will be used following the Wnamed cyclone. 
3-8 

Table 3-2. Eastern Pacific Tropical Cyclone Names

2009

ANDRES ahn DRASE 

BLANCA BLAHN kah 

CARLOS 

DOLORES 

ENRIQUE anh REE kay 

FELICIA fa LEE sha 

GUILLERMO gee YER mo 

HILDA 

IGNACIO eeg NAH cio 

JIMENA he MAY na 

KEVIN 

LINDA 

MARTY 

NORA 

OLAF OH lahf 

PATRICIA 

RICK 

SANDRA 

TERRY 

VIVIAN 

WALDO 

XINA ZEE nah 

YORK 

ZELDA ZEL dah 

2010

AGATHA 

BLAS 

CELIA 

DARBY 

ESTELLE 

FRANK 

GEORGETTE 

HOWARD 

ISIS 

JAVIER 

KAY 

LESTER 

MADELINE 

NEWTON 

ORLENE 

PAINE 

ROSLYN 

SEYMOUR 

TINA 

VIRGIL 

WINIFRED 

XAVIER 

YOLANDA yo LAHN da 

ZEKE 

2011 

ADRIAN 

BEATRIZ BEE a triz 

CALVIN 

DORA 

EUGENE 

FERNANDA fer NAN dah 

GREG 

HILARY 

IRWIN 

JOVA Ho vah 

KENNETH 

LIDIA 

MAX 

NORMA 

OTIS 

PILAR 

RAMON rah MONE 

SELMA 

TODD 

VERONICA 

WILEY 

XINA ZEE nah 

YORK 

ZELDA ZEL dah 

2012 

ALETTA a LET ah 

BUD 

CARLOTTA 

DANIEL 

EMILIA ee MILL ya 

FABIO FAH bee o 

GILMA GIL mah 

HECTOR 

ILEANA ill ay AH nah 

JOHN 

KRISTY 

LANE 

MIRIAM 

NORMAN 

OLIVIA 

PAUL 

ROSA 

SERGIO SIR gee oh 

TARA 

VICENTE vee CEN tay 

WILLA 

XAVIER ZAY vier 

YOLANDA yo LAHN da 

ZEKE 

2013

ALVIN 

BARBARA 

COSME COS may 

DALILA 

ERICK 

FLOSSIE 

GIL 

HENRIETTE hen ree ETT 

IVO 

JULIETTE 

KIKO KEE ko 

LORENA low RAY na 

MANUEL mahn WELL 

NARDA 

OCTAVE AHK tave 

PRISCILLA 

RAYMOND 

SONIA SONE yah 

TICO TEE koh 

VELMA 

WALLIS 

XINA ZEE nah 

YORK 

 ZELDA ZEL dah 

2014

AMANDA 

BORIS 

CRISTINA 

DOUGLAS 

ELIDA ELL ee dah 

FAUSTO FOW sto 

GENEVIEVE 

HERNAN her NAHN 

ISELLE ee SELL 

JULIO HOO lee o 

KARINA 

LOWELL 

MARIE 

NORBERT 

ODILE oh DEAL 

POLO 

RACHEL 

SIMON 

TRUDY 

VANCE 

WINNIE 

XAVIER ZAY vier 

YOLANDA yo LAHN da 

ZEKE 
3-9 

Table 3-3. Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Names

COLUMN 1 COLUMN 2 

Name Pronunciation Name Pronunciation

AKONI ah-KOH-nee AKA AH-kah 

EMA EH-mah EKEKA eh-KEH-kak 

HONE HOH-neh HENE HEH-neh 

IONA ee-OH-nah IOLANA ee-OH-lah-nah 

KELI KEH-lee KEONI keh-ON-nee 

LALA LAH-lah LINO LEE-noh 

MOKE MOH-keh MELE MEH-leh 

NOLO NOH-loh NONA NOH-nah 

OLANA Oh-LAH-nah OLIWA oh-LEE-vah 

PENA PEH-nah PAMA PAH-mah 

ULANA oo-LAH-nah UPANA oo-PAH-nah 

WALE WAH-leh WENE WEH-neh 

COLUMN 3 COLUMN 4 

Name Pronunciation Name Pronunciation

ALIKA ah-LEE-kah ANA AH-nah

ELE EH-leh ELA EH-lah 

HUKO HOO-koh HALOLA hah-LOH-lah

IOPA ee-OH-pah IUNE ee-OO-neh

KIKA KEE-kah KILO KEE-lo

LANA LAH-nah LOKE LOH-keh

MAKA MAH-kah MALIA mah-LEE-ah

NEKI NEH-kee NIALA nee-AH-lah

OMEKA oh-MEH-kah OHO OH-hoh

PEWA PEH-vah PALI PAH-lee

UNALA oo-NAH-lah ULIKA oo-LEE-kah

WALI WAH-lee WALAKA wah-LAH-kah

NOTE: Use Column 1 list of names until exhausted before going to Column 2, etc. All letters in the 

Hawaiian language are pronounced, including double or triple vowels. 
3-10 

Table 3-4. International Tropical Cyclone Names 

for the Northwest Pacific and South China Sea 

Contributor I II III IV V

NAME NAME NAME NAME NAME

Cambodia Damrey Kong-rey Nakri Krovanh Sarika 

China Longwang Yutu Fengshen Dujuan Haima 

DPR Korea Kirogi Toraji Kalmaegi Maemi Meari 

HK, China Kai-tak Man-yi Fung-wong Choi-wan Ma-on 

Japan Tembin Usagi Kammuri Koppu Tokage 

Lao PDR Bolaven Pabuk Phanfone Ketsana Nock-ten 

Macau Chanchu Wutip Vongfong Parma Muifa 

Malaysia Jelawat Sepat Nuri Melor Merbok 

Micronesia Ewiniar Fitow Sinlaku Nepartak Nanmadol 

Philippines Bilis Danas Hagupit Lupit Talas 

RO Korea Kaemi Nari Changmi Sudal Noru 

Thailand Prapiroon Wipha Mekkhala Nida Kulap 

U.S.A. Maria Francisco Higos Omais Roke 

Viet Nam Saomai Lekima Bavi Conson Sonca 

Cambodia Bopha Krosa Maysak Chanthu Nesat 

China Wukong Haiyan Haishen Dianmu Haitang 

DPR Korea Sonamu Podul Pongsona Mindulle Nalgae 

HK, China Shanshan Lingling Yanyan Tingting Banyan 

Japan Yagi Kajiki Kujira Kompasu Washi 

Lao PDR Xangsane Faxai Chan-hom Namtheun Matsa 

Macau Bebinca Peipan Linfa Malou Sanvu 

Malaysia Rumbia Tapah Nangka Meranti Mawar 

Micronesia Soulik Mitag Soudelor Rananim Guchol 

Philippines Cimaron Hagibis Molave Malakas Talim 

RO Korea Chebi Noguri Koni Megi Nabi 

Thailand Durian Rammasun Morakot Chaba Khanun 

U.S.A. Utor Matmo Etau Aere Vicente 

Viet Nam Trami Halong Vamco Songda Saola 

NOTE: The official international name list was effective January 1, 2000. Names will be assigned in rotation 

starting with Damrey for the first tropical cyclone of the year 2000 which is of tropical storm strength or greater. 

When the last name in column 5 (Saola) is used, the sequence will begin again with the first name in column 1. 

3.6. Abbreviated Communications Headings. Abbreviated communications headings are 

assigned to advisories on tropical and subtropical cyclones and other advisories based on 

depression numbers or storm name and standard communications procedures governed by the 

World Meteorological Organization (WMO). An abbreviated heading consists of three groups 

with ONE space between each of the groups. The first group contains a data type indicator (e.g., 
3-11 

WT for hurricane), a geographical indicator (e.g. NT for Atlantic Basin), and a number. The 

second group contains a location identifier of the message originator (e.g., KNHC for 

TPC/NHC). The third group is a date-time group in UTC. An example of a complete header is: 

WTNT61 KNHC 180400. 

Table 3-5. Summary of Products and their Associated WMO Header 

PRODUCT TITLE WMO HEADER 

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic Basin ABNT20 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific ABPZ20 KNHC 

Central Pacific ACPN50 PHFO 

Tropical Weather Discussion

Atlantic Basin AXNT20 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific AXPZ20 KNHC 

Tropical/Subtropical Cyclone Public Advisory

Atlantic Basin WTNT31-35 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ31-35 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA31-35 PHFO 

Western Pacific WTPQ31-35 PGUM 

Tropical Cyclone Surface Wind Speed Probabilities Text Product

Atlantic Basin FONT11-15 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific FOPZ11-15 KNHC 

Central Pacific FOPA11-15 PHFO 

Tropical/Subtropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory

Atlantic Basin WTNT21-25 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ21-25 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA21-25 PHFO 

Tropical Cyclone Discussion

Atlantic Basin WTNT41-45 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ41-45 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA41-45 PHFO 

Tropical Cyclone Valid Time Event Code Product

Atlantic Basin WTNT81-85 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ81-85 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA81-85 PHFO 

Tropical Cyclone Position Estimate

Atlantic Basin WTNT51-55 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ51-55 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA51-55 PHFO 

Western North Pacific WTPQ51-55 PGUM 

Tropical Cyclone Update

Atlantic Basin WTNT61-65 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific WTPZ61-65 KNHC 

Central Pacific WTPA61-65 PHFO 
3-12 

Table 3-5 (continued). Summary of Products and their Associated WMO Header 

PRODUCT TITLE WMO HEADER 

Tropical Weather Summary

Atlantic Basin ABNT30 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific ABPZ30 KNHC 

Central Pacific ACPN60 PHFO 

Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity from Satellite Data

South Central Pacific 120W TXPS40 PHFO 

North Central Pacific 140W - 180 TXPN40 PHFO 

Satellite Interpretation Message

Hawaiian Islands ATHW40 PHFO 

West Pacific (Guam) ATPQ40 PGUM 

Satellite-Derived Rainfall

Eastern Caribbean TCCA21 KNHC 

Central Caribbean TCCA22 KNHC 

Western Caribbean TCCA23 KNHC 

Aviation Tropical Cyclone Advisory Message

Atlantic Basin FKNT21-25 KNHC 

Eastern Pacific FKPZ21-25 KNHC 

Central Pacific FKPA21-25 PHFO 

Tropical Cyclone Summary - Fixes

South Central Pacific 120W TXPS41-45 PHFO 

North Central Pacific 140W - 180 TXPN41-45 PHFO 

Note: Refer to Appendix C for abbreviated communications headers and titles for the products 

for which JTWC is responsible. 

3.7. Hurricane Liaison Team (HLT).

 3.7.1. National Weather Service (NWS) Responsibilities. The NWS supports the 

HLT through use of Tropical Prediction Center (TPC) meteorologists, Weather Forecast Office 

(WFO) personnel (typically warning coordination meteorologists and service hydrologists), and 

River Forecast Center (RFC) hydrologists. Eastern and Southern Region Headquarters will 

maintain a list of their available HLT candidates. 

 After HLT deactivation, the HPC will assume the briefing duties provided the remnants of 

the tropical cyclone remain a threat to inland areas. TPC and HPC will coordinate prior to the 

transfer. During the inland event HPC will coordinate with the appropriate WFOs and RFCs and 

when needed, hydrologists from the RFCs will provide hydrological briefings. 

 3.7.2. Activation. The HLT may be activated when a tropical cyclone in the Atlantic, 

Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean or eastern Pacific threatens the United States or its territories, and the 

Director or Deputy Director of TPC deems HLT assistance is required. TPC makes the request 

for activation by contacting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Operations 

Center (FOC). Upon FEMA’s approval, the FOC will activate the HLT. The TPC Director or 

Deputy Director will contact the appropriate NWS Regional Director requesting meteorological 

and/or hydrologic support. NWS personnel should arrive at TPC within 24 hours. The HLT will 
3-13 

remain active until the hurricane threat has passed, at which time HLT operations will be 

terminated by FEMA. However, if the storm moves inland and if significant rainfall is expected, 

the HLT may remain activated. 

 If the HLT is deactivated, the HPC will assume the briefing duties provided the remnants of 

the tropical cyclone remain a threat to inland areas. TPC and HPC will coordinate prior to the 

transfer. During the inland event, HPC will coordinate with the appropriate WFOs and RFCs 

and, when needed, hydrologists from the RFCs will provide hydrological briefings. 

 3.7.3. Training. Completing NWS/FEMA’s distance learning training module, 

Community Hurricane Preparedness, is required by HLT members. The module can be taken via 

the Internet at: http://meted.ucar.edu/hurrican/chp/index.htm. Other training opportunities are 

strongly encouraged. They are: FEMA’s “Introduction to Hurricane Preparedness” conducted at 

TPC for emergency mangers and NWS personnel, and FEMA’s annual HLT training session 

held at TPC. 

 3.7.4. Meteorological Duties. The HLT meteorologist will: 

 Establish and maintain contact with the impacted WFOs, RFCs, and the HPC. 

 Facilitate participation of the impacted NWS offices in conference calls, 

briefings, and in preparation and distribution of graphics. 

 Provide meteorological interpretations on National Hurricane Center 

advisories (NHC), WFO hurricane local statements, HURREVAC products, 

and storm surge forecasts for federal, state and local agencies on request. 

 Provide storm briefings via video/audio teleconferences for federal, state and 

local organizations. 

 Respond to meteorology-related incoming calls from federal, state, and local 

emergency managers, and as appropriate, refer meteorologic inquires to the 

local WFO. 

 3.7.5. Hydrologic Duties. The HLT hydrologist will: 

 Establish and maintain contact with the impacted local WFOs, RFCs, and the 

HPC. 

 Facilitate participation of the impacted NWS offices in conference calls, 

briefings, and in preparation and distribution of graphics. 

 Provide hydrologic interpretation on NHC advisories, WFO hurricane local 

statements, and WFO and RFC hydrologic products for federal, state and local 

agencies on request. 

 Provide technical support for RFC lead during hydrologic portion of video 

teleconference. In absence of the RFC, lead the hydrologic portion of the 

video teleconference. 
3-14 

 Respond to hydrology-related incoming calls from federal, state, and local 

emergency managers and as appropriate, refer hydrologic inquires to the local 

WFO 
4-1 

CHAPTER 4 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE 

PRODUCTS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

4.1. General. The Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Commerce (DOC) 

weather forecasting, reconnaissance, and distribution agencies share technical information and 

some responsibilities. Mutually supportive relationships have developed over the years and have 

resulted in a mutual dependency. Due to the nature and distribution of DOD resources and 

operations, the DOD requires certain meteorological information beyond that available to the 

general public. Accordingly, the DOC provides DOD with special observations and advisories 

on tropical and subtropical storms threatening DOD resources or operations. 

4.2. Observations. The Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center (TPC/NHC) 

and Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) will make available to DOD all significant tropical 

and subtropical cyclone observations that they receive. 

4.3. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisories.

4.3.1. General. The TPC/NHC and CPHC will provide to DOD forecasts and related 

information for tropical and subtropical weather disturbances of depression intensity or greater. 

Forecasts will include location, movement, intensity, and dimension of the disturbances. 

Tropical cyclone forecast/advisories will be disseminated through the National Weather Service 

(NWS) communications facility at Suitland, MD, to the Weather Product Management and 

Distribution System (WPMDS) at the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA), Offutt AFB, NE, for 

further relay to DOD agencies. The DOD forecasters, who must give advice concerning an 

imminent operational decision, may contact the appropriate hurricane center forecaster (see 

Chapter 2) when published tropical cyclone forecast/advisories require elaboration. Telephone 

numbers for the hurricane centers are in Appendix I. 

4.3.2. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory Issue Frequency. The first tropical 

cyclone forecast/advisory will normally be issued when meteorological data indicate that a 

tropical or subtropical cyclone has formed. Subsequent advisories will be issued at 0300, 0900, 

1500, and 2100 UTC from TPC/NHC and CPHC. The public advisories issued by the NWS 

Forecast Office (WFO) Guam, are issued 1 hour after the JTWC guidance. Advisories will 

continue to be issued until the system is classified below the depression intensity level. In 

addition, special forecasts will be issued whenever the following criteria are met: 

 A significant change has occurred, requiring the issuance of a revised forecast 

package. 

 Conditions require a hurricane or tropical storm watch or warning to be issued. 

Remarks stating the reason for the special forecast or the relocation will be mandatory in all 

special forecasts or advisories that include a relocated position. 

4.3.3. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory Content. Tropical cyclone forecast/ 

advisories issued by the TPC/NHC and CPHC will contain appropriate information as shown in 
4-2 

Figure 4-1. The forecast will contain 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, and 120-hour tropical cyclone 

forecast positions. A code string is appended at the end of the line "NWS TPC/NATIONAL 

HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL." This is the Automated Tropical Cyclone Forecasting 

(ATCF) System Storm Identification Character String recognized by the WMO for tracking and 

verification of tropical cyclones. The ATCF <Storm ID> is three spaces after "FL" and uses the 

following format: 

NWS TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL BBCCYYYY 

where: 

BB = Ocean Basin 

AL - North Atlantic basin...north of the Equator 

SL - South Atlantic basin...south of the Equator 

EP - North East Pacific basin...eastward of 140oW 

CP - North Central Pacific basin between the Dateline and 140oW 

WP - North West Pacific basin...westward of the Dateline 

IO - North Indian Ocean basin...north of the Equator between 40oE and 100oE 

SH - South Pacific Ocean Basin and South Indian Ocean basin 

CC = Cyclone Number 

Numbers 01 through 49 are reserved for tropical and subtropical cyclones. A 

cyclone number is assigned to each tropical or subtropical cyclone in each basin 

as it develops. The numbers are assigned in chronological order. 

Numbers 50 through 79 are reserved for internal use by operational forecast 

centers. 

Numbers 80 through 89 are reserved for training, exercises and testing. 

Numbers 90 through 99 are reserved for tropical disturbances which have the 

potential to become tropical or subtropical cyclones. Although not required, the 

90’s should be assigned sequentially and reused throughout the calendar year. 

 YYYY = Four-digit year 

This is the calendar year for the Northern Hemisphere. For the Southern 

Hemisphere, the year begins July 1, with calendar year plus one. 

Note: Tropical cyclone public advisories issued by the TPC/NHC, CPHC, and WFO Guam will 

contain appropriate information as shown in the example in Figure 4-2. 

 4.3.3.1. Definition of Wind Radii by Quadrant. The working definition of the 

wind radius for a quadrant is: use the largest radius of that wind speed found in the quadrant. 

Example: TPC/NHC's quadrants are defined as NE (0°-90°), SE (90°-180°), SW (180°-270°), 

and NW (270°-360°). Given a maximum 34-knot radius of 150 nm at 0°, 90 nm at 120°, and 40 

nm at 260°, the following line would be carried in the forecast/advisory: 150NE 90SE 40SW 

150NW. 
4-3 

 4.3.3.2. Numbering of Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisories. All tropical 

cyclone forecast/advisories will be numbered sequentially; for example, 

 Tropical Depression ONE Forecast/Advisory Number 1 

 Tropical Depression ONE Forecast/Advisory Number 2 

 Tropical Storm Anita Forecast/Advisory Number 3 

 Hurricane (Typhoon) Anita Forecast/Advisory Number 4 

 Tropical Depression Anita Forecast/Advisory Number 5 
4-4 

Figure 4-1. Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory Format 

WTNT25 KNHC 230300 

TCMAT5 

HURRICANE ISIDORE FORECAST/ADVISORY NUMBER 28 

NWS TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL102002 

0300Z MON SEP 23 2002 

 

A HURRICANE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT ALONG THE GULF OF MEXICO AND 

CARIBBEAN COASTS OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA FROM CAMPECHE NORTH AND 

EASTWARD TO TULUM...INCLUDING THE ISLAND OF COZUMEL. 

 

HURRICANE CENTER LOCATED NEAR 20.8N 89.5W AT 23/0300Z 

POSITION ACCURATE WITHIN 20 NM 

 

PRESENT MOVEMENT TOWARD THE SOUTHWEST OR 220 DEGREES AT 4 KT 

 

ESTIMATED MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE 950 MB 

MAX SUSTAINED WINDS 90 KT WITH GUSTS TO 110 KT. 

64 KT....... 45NE 25SE 25SW 45NW. 

50 KT....... 75NE 50SE 50SW 75NW. 

34 KT.......200NE 130SE 100SW 150NW. 

12 FT SEAS..300NE 200SE 150SW 300NW. 

WINDS AND SEAS VARY GREATLY IN EACH QUADRANT. RADII IN NAUTICAL 

MILES ARE THE LARGEST RADII EXPECTED ANYWHERE IN THAT QUADRANT. 

 

REPEAT...CENTER LOCATED NEAR 20.8N 89.5W AT 23/0300Z 

AT 23/0000Z CENTER WAS LOCATED NEAR 21.0N 89.4W 

 

FORECAST VALID 23/1200Z 20.7N 90.3W 

MAX WIND 80 KT...GUSTS 100 KT. 

64 KT... 40NE 20SE 25SW 40NW. 

50 KT... 60NE 40SE 40SW 60NW. 

34 KT...180NE 60SE 60SW 150NW. 

 

FORECAST VALID 24/0000Z 21.0N 91.0W 

MAX WIND 95 KT...GUSTS 115 KT. 

64 KT... 45NE 25SE 25SW 45NW. 

50 KT... 75NE 50SE 50SW 75NW. 

34 KT...200NE 150SE 100SW 150NW. 

 

FORECAST VALID 24/1200Z 21.8N 92.0W 

MAX WIND 115 KT...GUSTS 140 KT. 

64 KT... 60NE 45SE 45SW 60NW. 

50 KT...100NE 75SE 75SW 100NW. 

34 KT...200NE 150SE 125SW 180NW. 

 

FORECAST VALID 25/0000Z 22.8N 92.5W 

MAX WIND 125 KT...GUSTS 155 KT. 

50 KT...100NE 100SE 75SW 100NW. 

34 KT...200NE 200SE 150SW 200NW. 

 

FORECAST VALID 26/0000Z 25.0N 93.0W 

MAX WIND 125 KT...GUSTS 155 KT. 

50 KT...100NE 100SE 75SW 100NW. 

34 KT...200NE 200SE 150SW 200NW. 

 

EXTENDED OUTLOOK. NOTE...ERRORS FOR TRACK HAVE AVERAGED NEAR 275 NM 

ON DAY 4 AND 375 NM ON DAY 5...AND FOR INTENSITY NEAR 20 KT EACH DAY 

 

OUTLOOK VALID 27/0000Z 22.8N 92.5W 

MAX WIND 100 KT...GUSTS 120 KT. 

 

OUTLOOK VALID 28/0000Z 25.0N 93.0W 

MAX WIND 90 KT...GUSTS 110 KT. 

REQUEST FOR 3 HOURLY SHIP REPORTS WITHIN 300 MILES OF 20.8N 89.5W 

 

NEXT ADVISORY AT 23/0900Z 

 

FORECASTER PASCH 

$$ 

NNNN 
4-5 

Figure 4-2. Tropical Cyclone Public Advisory Format 

WTNT34 KNHC 260359 

MIATCPAT4 

BULLETIN 

TROPICAL STORM DEBBY ADVISORY NUMBER 18 

NWS TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL042006 

1100 PM AST FRI AUG 25 2006 

...DEBBY BARELY HANGING ON AS A TROPICAL STORM... 

AT 1100 PM AST...0300 UTC...THE CENTER OF TROPICAL STORM DEBBY WAS 

LOCATED NEAR LATITUDE 25.2 NORTH...LONGITUDE 45.6 WEST OR ABOUT 1400 

MILES...2255 KM...SOUTHWEST OF THE AZORES. 

 

DEBBY IS MOVING TOWARD THE WEST-NORTHWEST NEAR 14 MPH...22 KM/HR... 

AND A TURN TO THE NORTHWEST AND THEN NORTH-NORTHWEST IS EXPECTED 

DURING THE NEXT DAY OR TWO. 

 

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS ARE NEAR 40 MPH...65 KM/HR...WITH HIGHER 

GUSTS. LITTLE CHANGE IN STRENGTH IS FORECAST DURING THE NEXT 24 

HOURS. 

 

TROPICAL STORM FORCE WINDS EXTEND OUTWARD UP TO 105 MILES...165 KM 

FROM THE CENTER. 

 

ESTIMATED MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE IS 1008 MB...29.77 INCHES. 

...SUMMARY OF 1100 PM AST INFORMATION... 

LOCATION...25.2N 45.6W 

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...40 MPH 

PRESENT MOVEMENT...WEST-NORTHWEST OR 295 DEGREES AT 14 MPH 

MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1008 MB 

THE NEXT ADVISORY WILL BE ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER AT 500 AM AST. 

 

$$ 

FORECASTER NAME 

5-1 

CHAPTER 5 

AIRCRAFT RECONNAISSANCE

5.1. General. All Department of Commerce (DOC) tropical and subtropical cyclone aircraft 

reconnaissance needs will be requested and provided in accordance with the procedures of this 

chapter. As outlined in the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC)/National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Memorandum of Agreement (see Appendix F), DOC has 

identified a requirement for, and the Department of Defense (DOD) maintains aircraft to support, 

up to five sorties per day. Requirements exceeding five sorties will be accomplished on a 

"resources-permitting" basis. In times of national emergency or war, some or all DOD 

reconnaissance resources may not be available to fulfill DOC needs. The Global Decision 

Support System (GDSS) JCS Priority Code for tasked, operational weather reconnaissance is 

1A3 (IAW DOD Regulation 4500.9-R and Joint Publications 4-01 and 4-04). The Force Activity 

Designator (FAD)/Urgency of Need Designator (UND) Supply Priority Designator 

Determination code is IIA2 (IAW Joint Publication 4-01 and Air Force Manual 23-110, Volume 

2, Part 13, Attachment 3A-2.) 

5.2. Responsibilities. The DOD, through the AFRC's 53rd Weather Reconnaissance 

Squadron (53 WRS), and DOC, through NOAA's Aircraft Operations Center (AOC), operate a 

complementary fleet of aircraft to conduct hurricane/tropical cyclone reconnaissance, synoptic 

surveillance, and research missions. 

 5.2.1. DOD. The DOD is responsible for: 

 5.2.1.1. Providing operational aircraft for vortex fixes and data, synoptic 

surveillance missions, and investigative flights in response to DOC needs (see Figure 5-1). 

 5.2.1.2. Developing operational procedures and deploying data buoys to satisfy 

DOC needs. 

 5.2.2. DOC. The DOC is responsible for aircraft operations that may be requested to: 

 5.2.2.1. Provide synoptic surveillance soundings (see Figure 5-2). 

 5.2.2.2. Augment AFRC aircraft reconnaissance when DOC needs exceed the 

capabilities of DOD resources (see Figure 5-3). 

 5.2.2.3. Assume responsibility for hurricane reconnaissance over foreign airspace 

that may be restricted for military operations. 

 5.2.2.4. Conduct research flights. 
5-2 

Figure 5-1. WC-130J Weather Reconnaissance Aircraft 

Figure 5-2. G-IV Weather Surveillance Aircraft 

Figure 5-3. NOAA P-3 Weather Surveillance Aircraft 
5-3 

 5.2.3. DOT. The DOT is responsible for providing air traffic control services to aircraft 

when within airspace controlled by the FAA. This includes offshore oceanic airspace. 

Procedures for the expeditious handling of reconnaissance aircraft are documented in paragraph 

5.5.4, Aircraft Operations—Pre-mission Coordination and paragraph 5.5.5, Aircraft 

Operations—Mission Execution.. 

5.3. Control of Aircraft. Operational control of aircraft flying tropical and subtropical 

cyclone reconnaissance will remain with the operating agencies which own the aircraft. 

5.4. Reconnaissance Requirements.

 5.4.1. Meteorological Parameters. Data needs in priority order are as follows: 

 Geographical position of the flight level vortex center (vortex fix) and relative 

position of the surface center, if known. 

 Center sea-level pressure determined by dropsonde or extrapolation from 

within 1,500 ft of the sea surface or from the computed 925 hPa, 850 hPa, or 

700 hPa height. 

 Minimum 700, 850 or 925 hPa height, if available. 

 Wind data (continuous observations along the flight track) for surface and 

flight level. 

 SFMR surface wind. 

 High density three-dimensional Doppler radial velocities of the tropical 

cyclone core circulation. 

 Temperature at flight level. 

 SFMR rain rate. 

 Sea-surface temperature. 

 Dew-point temperature at flight level. 

 5.4.2. Accuracy.

 5.4.2.1. Geographic Position.

 Aircraft position: within 3 nm. 

 Storm surface center (wind/pressure): within 6 nm. 

 Flight level storm center (wind/pressure): within 6 nm. 

 5.4.2.2. Wind Direction.

 Surface: within 10 deg. 

 Flight level for winds greater than 20 kt: within 5 deg. 

 5.4.2.3. Wind Speed.

 Surface: within 10 kt. 
5-4 

 Flight level: within 4 kt. 

 5.4.2.4. Pressure Height.

 Surface: within 2 hPa. 

 Flight level at or below 500 hPa: within 10 m. 

 Flight level above 500 hPa: within 20 m. 

 5.4.2.5. Temperature.

 Sea surface: within loC. 

 Flight level: within loC. 

 5.4.2.6. Dew-Point Temperature.

 From -20oC to +40°C: within loC. 

 Less than -20oC: within 3oC. 

 5.4.2.7. Absolute Altitude: Within 10 m. 

 5.4.2.8. Vertical Sounding.

 Pressure: within 2 hPa. 

 Temperature: within 1oC. 

 Dew-point temperature: 

 From -20oC to +40oC: within loC. 

 Less than -20oC: within 3oC. 

 Wind direction: within 10 deg. 

 Wind speed: within 5 kt. 

 5.4.2.9. Core Doppler Radar. 

 Horizontal resolution along aircraft track: 1.5 km 

 Radar beam width: 3 degrees. 

 Radar radial resolution (gate length): 150 m. 

 Error in radar radial velocity: 1 m/s. 

 Range: 50 km.

[NOTE: Present weather reconnaissance capabilities do not completely satisfy these 

requirements; data will be collected as close to stated requirements as possible.] 

 5.4.3. High-Density/High-Accuracy (HD/HA) Data Requirements. The HD/HA data 

include UTC time, aircraft latitude, longitude, static pressure, geopotential height, extrapolated 

sea level pressure or DValue, air temperature, dew point temperature, flight-level (FL) wind 

direction, FL wind speed, peak 10-second (10-s) average FL wind speed, peak 10-s average 

surface wind speed from the stepped frequency microwave radiometer (SFMR), SFMR-derived 
5-5 

rain rate, and quality control flags. Except for the peak values noted above, all data provided in 

HDOB messages are 30-second averages, regardless of the interval at which the HDOB 

messages are reported. See Appendix G for HDOB message formats. The DOC requires rapid 

acquisition and transmission of tropical cyclone data, especially within the 24-hour period prior 

to landfall. If HD/HA capability is lost on an operational mission, the airborne meteorologist 

will immediately contact Chief, Aerial Reconnaissance Coordination, All Hurricanes 

(CARCAH) to determine data requirements for the remainder of the mission. 

 5.4.4. Synoptic Surveillance Data Requirements. When required, TPC/NHC will 

request sounding data on the periphery of systems approaching the United States. TPC/NHC 

will provide specific tracks including control points, control times and dropwindsonde frequency 

allocations to CARCAH for coordination with the reconnaissance units. 

 5.4.5. Core Doppler Radar Requirements. When required, TPC/NHC and the 

Environmental Modeling Center (EMC) will coordinate to request high-density threedimensional Doppler radial velocities in the tropical cyclone core for potential storms impacting 

the United States, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. EMC, TPC/NHC, and HRD will 

coordinate to provide specific flight plans to CARCAH for coordination with the reconnaissance 

units. 

 5.4.6. Required Frequency and Content of Observations. Observation requirements 

are summarized in Table 5-1. Deviations to these requirements will be coordinated through 

CARCAH. The Vortex message format and information are shown in Figure 5-4, Figure 5-5, 

and Table 5-2. Other data message formats and code breakdowns can be found in Appendix G. 

Table 5-1. Requirements for Aircraft Reconnaissance Data

RECCO Section 1 

plus 4ddff and 9VTTT 

as applicable

Vortex Data 

Message 

(VDM)

Vertical Data 

WMO Temp 

Drop Code 

(FM37-VII)

High Density 

Observation 

(HDOB)

En route

Approx. every 30 

minutes over water not 

to exceed 200 nm

NA Every 400 nm over 

water 30-sec interval 

Invest 

area

At major turn turnpoints. 

Also, every 15 minutes if 

HDOBs are INOP.

After closing a 

circulation NA 30-sec interval 

Fix 

pattern

End points of Alpha 

pattern legs. 

 When necessary with 

radar fix information.

Each fix. 

Each tasked fix at 

or above 850 mb. 

Intermediate fixes 

and eyewall 

modules as 

requested.

30-sec interval 

 5.4.7. WP-3D Configuration. The minimum operational configuration of the WP-3D 

will include the stepped frequency microwave radiometer (SFMR), Doppler radar and the 

advanced vertical atmospheric profiling system (AVAPS).
5-6 

DATE SCHEDULED FIX 

TIME 

AIRCRAFT 

NUMBER ARWO 

WX MISSION IDENTIFICATION STORM NUMBER IDENTIFIER OB 

VORTEX DATA MESSAGE 

A DATE AND TIME OF FIX 

 DEG MIN N S LATITUDE OF VORTEX FIX 

B 

 DEG MIN E W LONGITUDE OF VORTEX FIX 

C MINIMUM HEIGHT AT STANDARD LEVEL 

D ESTIMATE OF MAXIMUM SURFACE WIND OBSERVED 

E BEARING AND RANGE FROM CENTER OF MAXIMUM SURFACE WIND 

F MAXIMUM FLIGHT LEVEL WIND NEAR CENTER 

G BEARING AND RANGE FROM CENTER OF MAXIMUM FLIGHT LEVEL WIND 

H 

 MINIMUM SEA LEVEL PRESSURE COMPUTED FROM DROPSONDE OR 

EXTRAPOLATED FROM FLIGHT LEVEL. IF EXTRAPOLATED, CLARIFY IN 

REMARKS. 

I MAXIMUM FLIGHT LEVEL TEMP/PRESSURE ALTITUDE OUTSIDE EYE 

J MAXIMUM FLIGHT LEVEL TEMP/PRESSURE ALTITUDE INSIDE EYE 

K DEWPOINT TEMP/SEA SURFACE TEMP INSIDE EYE 

L EYE CHARACTER: Closed wall, poorly defined, open SW, etc. 

M 

 EYE SHAPE/ORIENTATION/DIAMETER. CODE EYE SHAPE AS: C -Circular; 

CO - Concentric; E- Elliptical. TRANSMIT ORIENTATION OF MAJOR AXIS IN 

TENS OF DEGREE (i.e., 01-010 to 190; 17-170 to 350). TRANSMIT DIAMETER 

IN NAUTICAL MILES. Examples: C8 - Circular eye 8 miles in diameter. 

EO9/15/5 - Elliptical eye, major axis 090-270, length of major axis 15 NM, length 

of minor axis 5NM. CO8-14 - Concentric eye, diameter inner eye 8 NM, outer eye 

14 NM. 

N 

FIX DETERMINED BY/FIX LEVEL. FIX DETERMINED BY: 1 - Penetration; 2 - 

Radar; 3 - Wind; 4 - Pressure; 5 - Temperature. FIX LEVEL: Indicate surface 

center if visible; indicate both surface and flight level centers only when same: 0 - 

Surface; 1 - 1500ft; 9-925mb; 8 - 850 mb; 7 - 700 mb; 5 - 500 mb; 4 - 400 mb; 3 - 

300 mb; 2 - 200 mb; NA - Other. 

O NAVIGATION FIX ACCURACY/METEOROLOGICAL ACCURACY 

P 

REMARKS 

 MAX FL WIND_________________KT_________QUAD_________________________Z 

 MAX OUTBOUND FL WIND_________________KT_________QUAD______________Z 

 SLP EXTRAP FROM (Below 1500 FT/ 925 MB/ 850 MB/ DROPSONDE) 

 SFC CNTR__________________________/______________NM FROM FL CNTR 

 MAX FL TEMP _________C___________/___________NM FROM FL CNTR 

 SURFACE WIND OBSERVED VISUALLY 

INSTRUCTIONS: Items A through G (and H when extrapolated) are transmitted from the aircraft immediately 

following the fix. The remainder of the message is transmitted as soon as available. 

Figure 5-4. Vortex Data Message Worksheet
5-7 

Table 5-2. Vortex Data Message Entry Explanation 

DATA ITEM ENTRY

Mission Identifier As determined in Chapter 5, paragraph 5.7.6. 

Storm Identifier As determined in Chapter 4, paragraph 4.3.3. 

Observation Number A two digit number determined by the sequential order in which the observation 

is transmitted from the aircraft. 

A (ALPHA) Date and time (UTC) of the flight level center fix. If the flight level center cannot 

be fixed and the surface center is visible, enter the time of the surface center fix. 

B (BRAVO) The latitude and longitude of the center fix associated with item ALPHA. NOTE: 

If the surface center is fixable, enter bearing and range from the FL center in 

Remarks; e.g., SFC CNTR 270/15 nm, if the centers are separated by over 5 nm. 

C (CHARLIE) Indicate the standard atmospheric surface e.g. 925, 850 or 700 hPa. 

The minimum height of the standard surface observed inside the center. If at 

1,500 ft or below or not within 1,500 ft of a standard surface, enter NA. 

D (DELTA) The maximum surface wind observed during the inbound leg associated with this 

fix. When SFMR surface wind data are unavailable, the surface wind is 

determined visually. 

E (ECHO) Bearing and range of the maximum surface wind observed (item DELTA) from 

the coordinates reported in item BRAVO. 

F (FOXTROT) The maximum flight level wind observed during the inbound leg associated with 

this fix. If a significant secondary maximum wind is observed, report it in 

remarks. All winds reported should be 10-s averages. 

G (GOLF) Bearing and range of the maximum flight level wind observed (item FOXTROT) 

from the coordinates reported in item BRAVO. 

H (HOTEL) The minimum sea level pressure (SLP) to the nearest hectopascal observed at the 

coordinates reported in item BRAVO. Preface the SLP with "EXTRAP" 

(extrapolated) when the data are not derived from dropsonde or when the SLP is 

extrapolated from a dropsonde that terminated early. Clarify the difference in 

remarks (e.g., SLP EXTRAPOLATED FROM BELOW 1500 FEET/850 

HPA/DROPSONDE). 

I (INDIA) MAX FLT LVL TEMP--This temperature is taken just outside the central region 

of a cyclone (i.e., just outside the eyewall or just beyond the maximum wind 

band). This temperature may not be the highest recorded on the inbound leg but 

is representative of the environmental temperature just outside the central region 

of the storm. 

PRESSURE ALT--Pressure altitude data (meters) are taken at the same location 

as the maximum temperature data reported in item INDIA. 
5-8 

Table 5-2 (continued). Vortex Data Message Entry Explanation 

DATA ITEM ENTRY

J (JULIET) MAX FLT LVL TEMP--The maximum temperature observed within 5 nm of the center 

fix coordinates. If a higher temperature is observed at a location more than 5 nm away 

from the flight level center (item BRAVO), it is reported in Remarks, including bearing 

and distance from the flight level center. 

PRESSURE ALT--Pressure altitude data (meters) are taken at the same location as the 

maximum temperature data reported in item JULIET.

K (KILO) Dewpoint temperature/sea surface temperatures are collected at the same location as the 

maximum temperature reported in item JULIET. Enter NA if not observed. 

L (LIMA) Only report if at least 50 percent of the center has an eyewall, otherwise enter NA. 

Closed wall--if the center has 100 percent coverage with no eyewall weakness. 

Open XX--if the center has 50 percent or more but less than 100 percent coverage. State 

the direction of the eyewall weakness. 

M (MIKE) Self explanatory. Report only if item LIMA is reported, otherwise enter NA. 

N (NOVEMBER) Fix determined by: Always report 1. Report 2 if radar indicates curvature or banding 

consistent with fix location. Report 3 if recorded or observed winds indicate a closed 

center. Report 4 if the fix pressure is lower than all reported on the inbound leg. Report 5 

if the fix temperature is at least higher than any reported on the inbound leg. 

Fix level: Report 0 alone if fix is made solely on surface winds. Report 0 and the 

flight-level code if the centers are within 5 nm of each other. 

O (OSCAR) Navigational and meteorological accuracy are reported as the upper limit of probable 

error. Meteorological accuracy is normally reported as one-half of the diameter of the 

light and variable wind center. 

P (PAPA) Remarks to enhance the data reported above. Required remarks include: (1) mission 

identifier and observation number; (2) the maximum flight level wind observed, time of 

observation, and the relative quadrant of the storm of the observed wind on the latest pass 

through any portion of the storm; (3) the maximum flight-level wind observed on the 

outbound leg following the center fix just obtained, if it is higher than the inbound 

maximum reported in item F. Include time of observation and the relative quadrant of the 

storm of the qualifying outbound max wind. If, after the transmission of the vortex 

message but prior to the aircraft reaching the cross-leg turn point, a higher qualifying 

outbound wind is observed, then the vortex message will be amended with the higher 

outbound wind reported. If the outbound max FL wind becomes the new overall max FL 

wind, then consolidate the two max FL wind remarks into one remark; (4) the method of 

deriving the central SLP when extrapolated; and (5) the bearing and range of the surface 

center and/or maximum flight level temperature if not within 5 nm of the flight level 

center. 
5-9 

URNT12 KNHC 072030 

VORTEX DATA MESSAGE AL092008 

A. 07/20:09:20Z 

B. 21 deg 01 min N 

 074 deg 26 min W 

C. 700 mb 2624 m 

D. 90 kt 

E. 045 deg 13 nm 

F. 147 deg 106 kt 

G. 047 deg 016 nm 

H. 945 mb 

I. 10 C/ 3045 m 

J. 16 C/ 3057 m 

K. 13 C/ NA 

L. CLOSED WALL 

M. CO16-48 

N. 12345/7 

O. 0.02 / 1 nm 

P. AF307 0909A IKE OB 11 

MAX FL WIND 107 KT NW QUAD 18:21:10 Z 

Figure 5-5. Example Vortex Data Message (VDM) for the WC-130J 

5.5. Reconnaissance Planning and Flight Notification.

 5.5.1. DOC Requests for Aircraft Reconnaissance Data.

 5.5.1.1. Coordination. The Tropical Prediction/National Hurricane Center 

(TPC/NHC) will coordinate with the Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) to determine a 

list of the total DOC requirements for data on tropical and subtropical cyclones or disturbances 

for the next 24-hour period (1100 to 1100 UTC) and an outlook for the succeeding 24-hour 

period. This coordinated request will be provided to CARCAH as soon as possible, but not later 

than 1630 UTC each day in the format of Figure 5-6. Amendments will be provided as required. 

 5.5.1.2. Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day. From the coordinated DOC 

request, CARCAH will publish the Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day (TCPOD). The format for 

the TCPOD is shown in Figure 5-7. When DOC reconnaissance needs exceed DOD and DOC 

resources, CARCAH will coordinate with the TPC/NHC to establish priorities of requirements. 

 5.5.1.3. Anticipated Reconnaissance Requests. Reconnaissance requests can 

be anticipated for a forecast or actual storm location. 

 5.5.1.3.1. For the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and Central 

Pacific areas, the requests can be: 

 Up to four 6-hourly fixes per day when a storm is within 500 nm of 

landfall and west of 55oW in the Atlantic. 
5-10 

NHOP COORDINATED REQUEST FOR AIRCRAFT RECONNAISSANCE

___ Original 

___ Amendment 

 (Check One) 

 I. ATLANTIC REQUIREMENTS 

 STORM NAME FIX OR ON 

 DEPRESSION # STATION FLIGHT FCST NHC 

 SUSPECT AREA TIME COORDINATES PATTERN MVMT PRIORITY 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 GULF STREAM _____________________________________________________________________________________ 

 SUCCEEDING DAY OUTLOOK _______________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 REMARKS _________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 II. PACIFIC REQUIREMENTS 

 STORM NAME FIX OR ON 

 DEPRESSION # STATION FLIGHT FCST NHC 

 SUSPECT AREA TIME COORDINATES PATTERN MVMT PRIORITY 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 SUCCEEDING DAY OUTLOOK _______________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 REMARKS _________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 III. DISTRIBUTION 

 A. TO CARCAH BY 1630Z OR AMEND AT ANY TIME 

 B. Date ___________ Time _________ FCSTR INITIAL __________ 

 C. 53 WRS ________ AOC _________ Other __________ 

 Figure 5-6. NHOP Coordinated Request for Aircraft Reconnaissance 
5-11 

TROPICAL CYCLONE PLAN OF THE DAY FORMAT 

ATLANTIC AND CENTRAL PACIFIC OCEANS 

NOUS42 KNHC ________ (DATE/UTC TIME) 

WEATHER RECONNAISSANCE FLIGHTS 

CARCAH, TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER, MIAMI, FL 

_____ (LOCAL TIME) ___ (TIME ZONE) ___ (DAY) ___ (MONTH/DATE), ____ (YEAR) 

SUBJECT: THE TROPICAL CYCLONE PLAN OF THE DAY (TCPOD) 

VALID ______Z (MONTH) TO ______Z (MONTH) (YEAR) 

TCPOD NUMBER.........(YR)- __________ 

I. ATLANTIC REQUIREMENTS 

1. (STORM NAME, DEPRESSION, SUSPECT AREA) or (NEGATIVE RECON RQMTS) 

FLIGHT ONE (NHC PRIORITY, if applicable) 

 TEAL or NOAA _____ (number) 

A. ___________________________Z FIX/INVEST TIME 

B. ___________________________ MISSION IDENTIFIER 

C. ___________________________Z DEPARTURE TIME 

D. ___________________________ FORECAST POSITION 

E. ___________________________Z TIME ON STATION 

F. ___________________________ ALTITUDE(S) ON STATION 

G. ___________________________ REMARKS (if needed) 

 FLIGHT TWO (if applicable, same as FLIGHT ONE) 

 

2. (SECOND SYSTEM, if applicable, same as in 1. above) 

3. OUTLOOK FOR SUCCEEDING DAY (NHC PRIORITY, if applicable) 

A. POSSIBLE (Unit) ON STATION REQUIREMENT NEAR (Location) AT 

(Time) Z. 

II. PACIFIC REQUIREMENTS (Same as in ATLANTIC) 

Figure 5-7. Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day Format 
5-12 

 Up to eight 3-hourly fixes per day when a storm is forecast to be 

within 300 nm of the U.S. coast, Hawaiian Islands, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, DOD 

installations, and other DOD assets when specified. 

 Up to two synoptic surveillance missions per 24-hour period for 

potentially landfalling storms. 

 5.5.1.3.2. In the Eastern Pacific, reconnaissance missions may be 

tasked when necessary to carry out warning responsibilities. 

 5.5.1.3.3. Investigative flights may be requested for disturbances in 

areas defined above, i.e., one or two flights per day dependent upon proximity of landfall and 

upon known or suspected stage of development. 

 5.5.1.3.4. Exceptions may be made when additional reconnaissance is 

essential to carry out warning responsibilities. 

 5.5.2. DOD and DOC Reconnaissance Aircraft Responsiveness.

 5.5.2.1. Requirement Notification. Notification of requirements must 

precede tasked-on-station time by at least 16 hours plus en route time to the area of concern. 

 5.5.2.2. Prepositioning. The "Succeeding Day Outlook" portion of the 

TCPOD provides advance notification of requirements and authorizes units to preposition 

aircraft to forward operating locations. For missions requiring prepositioning, the "Succeeding 

Day Outlook" may not provide adequate advance notification. In this situation, an "Additional 

Day Outlook" may be included in the TCPOD to authorize units to preposition aircraft. 

 5.5.2.3. Resources Permitting. When circumstances preclude the appropriate 

notification lead time, the requirement will be levied as "resources permitting." When a 

"resources permitting" requirement is levied in an amendment, the TPC/NHC will indicate the 

priority of all existing or remaining requirements. 

 5.5.2.4. Emergency Requirement. If a storm develops unexpectedly and 

could cause a serious threat to lives and property within a shorter time than provided for in the 

paragraphs above, CARCAH will contact the reconnaissance units, or higher headquarters, as 

appropriate, and request assistance in implementing emergency procedures not covered in this 

plan. The TPC/NHC and CPHC directors have authority to declare an emergency. 

 5.5.2.5. NOAA WP-3D Availability. At least one WP-3D will be 

operationally configured (per paragraph 5.4.7) and available to respond to requirements within 

24 hours from June 1st through November 30th annually. A second P-3 with the same operational 

configuration will be available each hurricane season from July 15th to September 30th. When 

maintenance and programmatic considerations permit, the second aircraft could be made 

available until November 30th also. The frequency of flights when two aircraft are available and 

with present staffing shall be every twelve hours. 
5-13 

 5.5.3. Reconnaissance Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day.

 5.5.3.1. Preparation. CARCAH will coordinate the TCPOD (Figure 5-7) 

daily during the period from June 1 to November 30 and at other times during the year as 

required. Transmitted TCPODs will be serially numbered each season. 

 5.5.3.1.1. CARCAH will coordinate the TCPOD with TPC/NHC, the 

53 WRS, and NOAA AOC before publication. 

 5.5.3.1.2. The TCPOD will list all DOC and DOD required tropical 

and subtropical cyclone operational reconnaissance. Research missions will be listed in remarks 

when available by transmission time. 

 5.5.3.1.3. Amendments to the TCPOD will be published only when 

requirements change. When amended, the impact on each listed flight will be identified; i.e., No 

Change, Change Added, or Cancel. 

 5.5.3.2. Dissemination. The TCPOD will be made available to appropriate 

agencies, such as FAA, DOD, and NOAA, which provide support to or control of reconnaissance 

aircraft or are a part of the tropical cyclone warning service. Under normal circumstances, the 

TCPOD will be disseminated by 1830 UTC each day including weekends and holidays. If there 

are no current day or succeeding-day reconnaissance requirements, a negative report, which 

covers the appropriate time frame, will be disseminated. Amendments will be disseminated as 

required. 

[NOTE: The TCPOD is disseminated under the header “MIAREPRPD” for AWIPS users and “NOUS42 

KNHC” for AWDS users. The TCPOD can be accessed via the Internet at the Tropical Prediction 

Center/National Hurricane Center homepage at www.nhc.noaa.gov, then click on aircraft reconnaissance 

and then on Plan of the Day.] 

 5.5.4. Aircraft Operations—Pre-mission Coordination. 

 5.5.4.1. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Coordination. 

 5.5.4.1.1. Responsibilities. The Air Traffic Control System 

Command Center (ATCSCC) and Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) are responsible 

for coordination in support of the NHOP. 

 5.5.4.1.2. ATCSCC Procedures. 

 Review the NOAA/National Hurricane Center Aircraft 

Reconnaissance TCPOD at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/reconlist.shtml, by 1200 Eastern Time. 

 Activate the Hurricane Desk or the Crisis Management Center, 

when required. 

 Prepare a public Flow Evaluation Area (FEA) based on the 

latitude/longitude points specified in the TCPOD when a mission is scheduled to be flown. The 
5-14 

FEA naming convention is the three-letter identifier of the primary ARTCC and the two (2) 

digits of the mission aircraft call sign (ex. ZNY71 or with multiple aircraft in the same FEA 

ZNY71/42). Modify the FEA when requested by the primary ARTCC. 

 Designate a primary ARTCC when the Operations Area includes 

multiple ARTCCs. 

 Coordinate, as necessary, with the Air Force Reserve Command’s 

53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (53 WRS), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration Aircraft Operations Center (NOAA AOC), the National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration (NASA), the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), and the affected ARTCCs. 

 Discuss the mission profile with the unit’s operations center or 

aircraft commander approximately two (2) hours prior to the flight departure time. The unit’s 

operations center or aircraft commander will initiate the discussion. This discussion will include, 

at a minimum, the flight time, geographic location, flight track, and altitudes (AGL). Modify the 

FEA as required and coordinate with the impacted ARTCCs. 

 Assist ARTCCs with traffic flow priorities if the hurricane 

reconnaissance flight will impact air traffic. If required, ensure the hurricane reconnaissance 

flight receives priority for the specified period of time. 

 Conduct hurricane and customer conferences, as required. 

 5.5.4.1.3. ARTCC Procedures. 

 Coordinate with all impacted military facilities (ex. FACSFAC) 

and entities within their area of operations and responsibility to ensure all offshore airspace that 

is released to the military is protected for NHOP flights, when required. 

 Coordinate with all impacted terminal facilities. 

 If mission profile changes, coordinate with ATCSCC for FEA 

modifications. 

 Prepare a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) based on the 

latitude/longitude points specified in the TCPOD and update as required. 

 Assign each aircraft the designated reserved NORAD transponder 

code associated with that call sign. 

 5.5.4.2. Flight Operations Coordination (Aircraft and Unmanned Aerial 

Systems (UAS)). Normally notification to the ATCSCC of planned reconnaissance or buoy 

deployment flights by the 53 WRS and NOAA aircraft is accomplished through the TCPOD (1 

June through 30 November). If for any reason a flight is planned that was not included in the 

TCPOD, then these units operations centers will notify the ATCSCC National Operations 
5-15 

Manager (NOM) or International Operations Manager (IOM) directly at (703) 904-4525 prior to 

the scheduled time of departure. 

 When flights are scheduled on the TCPOD, the operations centers for the units flying those 

missions will contact the NOM for coordination. This call should happen as soon as practical 

after the TCPOD is published to enable the NOM to coordinate and activate their hurricane 

operations. NASA, NRL, or any other agency planning operations into or around the forecast or 

actual storm location will notify the ATCSCC NOM at (703) 904-4525 and the Chief, Aerial 

Reconnaissance Coordination, All Hurricanes (CARCAH) at (305) 229-4474, as soon as possible 

prior to an NHOP reconnaissance, surveillance, or research mission. 

All missions must provide the following information: 

 Mission call sign. 

 Departure point and estimated time of departure. 

 Approximate route to be flown. 

 Requested AGL or MSL altitude(s). 

 Any special requests. 

The following aircraft call signs will be used: 

 53 WRS – “TEAL 70 through 79” 

 NOAA AOC – “NOAA 42 through 44”; and “NOAA 49” 

 NASA – “NASA ##” 

 NRL – “WARLOCK 587” 

Each aircraft will have a designated reserved NORAD transponder code associated with that call 

sign. This code is assigned by ARTCC. 

 5.5.4.3. Flight Plan Filing Procedures. Flight plans for reconnaissance and 

research flights must be filed with the FAA as soon as practicable before departure time. Include 

delay time in the Route portion of the International Flight Plan. This will keep the IFR flight 

plan active throughout the delay. Due to limited information that is displayed on controller 

screens, it is recommended that only the following remarks be included in the “Other 

Information” block: “EET” to FIR boundaries, “STS” with storm delay information, and 

“RMK/MDCN” diplomatic clearance information. 

 5.5.4.4. Mission Coordination. The aircraft commander or operations center 

must contact the NOM at (703) 904-4525 or (703) 708-5140/5144 approximately 2 hours prior to 

scheduled takeoff time, or as soon as possible. If required, the NOM or the IOM initiates a 

conference call with all ATC and military facilities affected by the flight operations area to 

ensure flight information and proposed operations area information is up to date. 

 5.5.4.5. Mission Cancellation. When a mission is cancelled or delayed, the 

unit flying the mission must notify the NOM/IOM as soon as possible. 
5-16 

 5.5.5. Aircraft Operations—Mission Execution 

 5.5.5.1. NHOP Missions (Surface to FL150). 

 5.5.5.1.1. Priority Handling. When requested by the aircrew, ATC 

will provide TEAL and NOAA aircraft priority handling. The aircraft commander will only ask 

for priority handling when necessary to accomplish the mission. 

 5.5.5.1.2. Operations Area. Missions will be flown 100 percent 

under IFR criteria, and the IFR clearance will remain active throughout the flight. Even though 

rules for flying in Controlled and Uncontrolled Airspace are different, aircrews will not 

differentiate between these two while in the Operations Area and will follow normal Controlled 

Airspace procedures or procedures specified in this section. Regardless of the Designated Class 

of airspace (A through G), the following rules apply. 

 5.5.5.1.3. IFR Procedures and Clearance. ATC facilities will 

provide Air Traffic Control Services to all participating aircraft in the area of operations. All 

aircraft operating in this area will file their flight plan and fly according to IFR procedures. 

53WRS crews will not conduct flight operations under the military provisions of "Due Regard" 

or declare “Operational” in FAA controlled or uncontrolled airspace. However, this does not 

preclude the aircraft commander from exercising their authority in the interest of safety or during 

an aircraft emergency. 

 5.5.5.1.4. Altitude Assignment (AGL). Authorized aircraft may 

request to operate at a single altitude or within a block of altitudes defined by radar altitude 

(AGL). Multiple aircraft may operate in the same vicinity but at different altitudes at the same 

time. 

 Operations in Controlled Airspace. ATC will assign an altitude 

or a block of altitudes and provide standard vertical separation between all participating and all 

other known aircraft. ATC will use the following phraseology; “Teal 70 maintain block 

(altitude) through (altitude).” 

 Operations in Uncontrolled Airspace. ATC can neither assign 

altitudes in, nor provide separation between aircraft in uncontrolled airspace, but will issue safety 

alerts. While in uncontrolled airspace, aircrews will advise ATC of their planned altitudes. 

Aircrews are responsible for maintaining their own separation from the surface of the sea, 

obstacles, and oil platforms while operating below the Minimum IFR Altitude (MIA). 

NOTE: When an aircrew requests a block altitude that includes altitudes outside of controlled 

airspace, ATC will assign the altitudes that are in controlled airspace and clear the aircraft to exit 

controlled airspace. 

EXAMPLE: Teal 70 requests the block altitude surface to FL100. The airspace below FL055 

is uncontrolled. ATC will clear Teal 70, “Teal 70, maintain block flight level 055 through flight 
5-17 

level 100, cleared to exit controlled airspace.” 

 5.5.5.1.5. Delay Area. This area is defined as an area of airspace at 

and below FL150 with a radius of 150 nm around a set of center coordinates. This airspace 

excludes the terminal areas (as shown on the NHOP operational maps) until radio contact is 

established with the ATC facility controlling the terminal airspace. If not in radar contact within 

the area as shown on the NHOP Operational Maps, the aircrew will make position reports in 

relation to designated navigational aids as requested by ATC along the coast, and will be allowed 

flight up to the coast, traffic permitting. When several aircraft are participating in NHOP 

missions they may have different center coordinates or delay areas. Any changes to the 

operating area will be coordinated with ATC. 

 5.5.5.1.6. Communications. The aircrew maintains communications 

with only the primary ARTCC. Normally UHF or VHF radios will be used for communications 

with ATC, when within range. When out of UHF or VHF range, use Satellite Phone to 

communicate directly to ATC Centers. IFR aircraft flying in airspace under the control of FAA 

facilities are required to maintain continuous two-way communications with ATC even while 

flying in class F or G designated airspace. Due to quick ATC clearance approvals needed by the 

aircrew to maintain safety and execute the mission, direct contact with the ARTCC is required. 

Crews will make hourly “ops normal” calls to the primary ARTCC if not in radar contact, and no 

radio transmissions have been made within the previous hour. Relaying clearance requests 

through AIRINC, other aircraft, or SATCOM Data Link is not desired as this will delay 

receiving updated clearances or requests. 

 5.5.5.1.7. Backup ARTCC Communications Procedures. The 53 

WRS, CARCAH, NOAA, NASA, and NRL operation centers are responsible for ensuring that air 

traffic clearances and messages relayed by them to/from the FAA are relayed in an accurate 

manner. Only use this method when the aircraft is unable to directly contact ATC to request a 

revised or en route clearance. 

 TEAL aircraft will send their requests by SATCOM data link to the 

53 WRS operations center. The operations center will print this message and fax it directly to the 

primary ARTCC Missions Desk providing mission clearance. The operations center will also 

phone the Mission Desk. The ARTCC will issue a revised clearance. The 53 WRS operations 

center will transmit the approval via SATCOM back to the aircraft. 

 53 WRS and NOAA flights may also request that a clearance be 

relayed through CARCAH. 

 5.5.5.1.8. Air Traffic Control (ATC). The FAA will provide ATC 

services between Participating Aircraft, Non-Participating instrument flight rules (IFR) aircraft 

and known Visual Flight Rule (VFR) aircraft to the 53 WRS, NOAA, NASA, and NRL aircraft 

operating in the area of interest. Aircraft not following IFR or operating in Class G airspace may 

be operating near or in the storm environment; therefore, adherence to ATC clearances is 

mandatory for safety. 

 It is understood by the FAA, the 53 WRS, and NOAA AOC that 
5-18 

there is no practical method at this time to provide separation from any nonparticipating aircraft 

that is flying VFR, flying in Class G airspace, not in radar contact, not squawking, and/or not in 

communication with ATC. Aircrews must use “see and avoid” and TCAS to avoid these aircraft 

when possible. 

 If Air Traffic Advisory Service knows that an aircraft is operating 

VFR or is operating in uncontrolled airspace in the Area of Operations, then ATC will inform all 

Participating Aircraft so the Participating Aircraft can contact the Non-Participating Aircraft to 

de-conflict routing. 

 Coordination for aircraft operations will be at the ARTCC level. 

The ATC Military Operations desk will coordinate with all agencies for flight operations in 

Warning Areas, Special Use Airspace (SUA), and Approach Control airspace. 

 5.5.5.1.9. Participating Aircraft. During the aircraft commander’s 

or UAS operator’s mission call to the NOM, the NOM or the IOM will advise them whenever 

more than one Participating Aircraft will be in the area of interest at the same time and must brief 

the other aircraft’s call sign and mission information. If CARCAH is aware that there will be 

another aircraft or UAS in the operations area then they must also advise the affected flight crew. 

The following actions will be taken by the aircrews to de-conflict operations and enhance 

situational awareness with the other Participating Aircraft: 

 Set 29.92 (inches Hg) in at least one pressure altimeter. 

 Contact the other Participating Aircraft and confirm (as a 

minimum) the other aircraft’s pressure altitude, geographic position, true heading, and operating 

Altitude or Block Altitude (AGL). 

 Crews will not fly within 2,000 feet (vertical) of other participants 

operating in the same area of interest without concurrence of the other Participating Aircraft. 

 While in uncontrolled airspace TEAL and NOAA aircraft may use 

the same block altitudes and will provide separation from each other and any weather instrument 

being released. To maintain separation, these aircraft use separate altitudes and airplane-toairplane communication to maintain situational awareness of the other aircraft’s location in 

addition to using air-to-air TACAN, and TCAS. 

 The following frequencies will be used for airplane-to-airplane 

communications and coordination unless otherwise directed by ATC: 

 Primary: VHF 123.05 MHZ 

 Secondary: UHF 304.8 MHZ 

 Back-up: HF 4701 KHz USB 

 5.5.5.1.10. UAS Operations. When a UAS requires a block altitude 

conflicting with a Participating Aircraft then the Participating Aircraft will coordinate with each 

other and then coordinate with ATC for altitude changes. If both aircraft require the same block 

altitude then contact CARCAH to determine which mission has priority. 
5-19 

 5.5.5.1.11. Weather Dropsonde Instrument Release. The aircraft 

commander is the sole responsible party for all dropsonde releases or sensor activations. Aircraft 

commanders will ensure coordination with other Participating Aircraft prior to release or 

activation. (Examples of weather instruments are dropwindsondes and oceanographic profilers 

(OP)). 

 5.5.5.2. Buoy Deployment Mission (Surface to FL050). Regardless of the 

Designated Class of airspace (A through G) the following rules apply. 

 5.5.5.2.1. Flight Plan. A normal IFR flight plan will be filed for this 

mission. The coordinates for some of the planned deployments may need to be changed while en 

route to adjust to the forecast track of the storm. The aircraft routing will not be altered by ATC 

because the buoys must exit the aircraft in a specified order and they cannot be rearranged in 

flight. 

 5.5.5.2.2. IFR Procedures and Clearance. It is preferred that these 

missions be filed and flown using IFR procedures in either controlled or uncontrolled airspace. 

However, with the concurrence of the aircraft commander, they may be flown VFR. If this 

change is made en route, then ATC flight following and traffic advisories will be requested by 

the aircrew, and any changes to the route of flight must be relayed to ATC by the aircrew. 

 5.5.5.2.3. Altitude. These missions will be flown from 1000’ AGL 

up to FL050. Aircrews are responsible for maintaining their own clearance from the surface of 

the sea, obstacles, and oil platforms while operating below the Minimum IFR Altitude (MIA). 

 5.5.5.2.4. Communications. Normally use UHF or VHF radios for 

communications with ATC when within range. If out of range, then use the procedures for 

SATCOM relay through TEAL operations (ref. Communications paragraph under 5.5.5.1.6. 

above). 

 5.5.5.2.5. Participating Aircraft. If there are two or more TEAL 

aircraft deploying buoys in the same area at the same time, then they can accept MARSA 

operations with each other and must relay that to ATC. This will not cancel their IFR clearance 

but will allow ATC to no longer be responsible for providing aircraft separation between TEAL 

aircraft. The TEAL aircraft must be in communication with each other and have operating 

TCAS on at least one of the aircraft. At least one of these aircraft will have SATCOM data relay 

capability on board. 

 5.5.5.2.6. Priority Handling. ATC will provide TEAL aircraft 

priority handling to and from the deployment area only when specifically requested by the 

aircrew. The aircraft commander will only ask for priority handling when necessary to 

accomplish the mission. 

 5.5.5.3. High Altitude Synoptic Track Missions. 
5-20 

 5.5.5.3.1. Flight Plan. A normal IFR flight plan will be filed for this 

mission. An Altitude Reservation (ALTRAV) request is not required. 

 5.5.5.3.2. NOTAM. A NOTAM will be submitted by the 53 WRS, 

NOAA AOC, NASA, or NRL for any High Altitude Synoptic Track mission that will be 

releasing weather instruments. The NOTAM must contain coordinates for all releases. Submit 

NOTAM request per Appendix D procedures. 

 5.5.5.3.3. Priority Handling. ATC must provide priority handling 

during Synoptic Track Missions only when specifically requested by the aircrew. 

 5.5.5.3.4. Release of Dropsondes. During NHOP missions and 

when operationally feasible, dropsonde instrument releases from FL 190 or higher and sensor 

activation must be coordinated with the appropriate ARTCC/CERAP (Center En Route 

Approach Control) by advising of a pending drop or sensor activation about 10 minutes prior to 

the event when in direct radio contact with ATC. When ATC has radar contact with the aircraft, 

they will notify the aircrew of any traffic below them that might be affected. The aircraft 

commander is solely responsible for release of the instrument after clearing the area by all means 

available. 

 When contact with ATC is via ARINC, event coordination must be 

included with the position report prior to the point where the action will take place, unless all 

instrument release points have been previously relayed to the affected ATC center(s). Example: 

“TEAL 100, SLATN at 1215, FL290 block 310, estimating FLANN at 1250, CHAMP next; 

Weather instrument release at FLANN.” Contact between participating aircraft must be made 

using the frequencies listed in paragraph 5.5.5.1.9., last bullet. 

 During NHOP missions, commencing five (5) minutes prior to 

release from FL190 or higher, the aircrew will broadcast in the blind on radio frequencies 121.5 

MHZ and 243.0 MHZ to advise any traffic in the area of the impending drop. Pilots must not 

make these broadcasts if they will interfere with routine ATC communications, such as in the 

vicinity of an ATC facility. The aircraft commander is responsible for determining the content 

and duration of a broadcast, concerning the release or sensor activation. 

5.6. Reconnaissance Effectiveness Criteria.

 5.6.1. General. Specified reconnaissance times are established to allow sufficient time 

for the forecaster to analyze the data before issuing an advisory. Every effort should be made to 

obtain data at scheduled times. The following criteria will be used to assess reconnaissance 

mission effectiveness: 

 5.6.1.1. Tropical Cyclone Fix Mission.

 ON-TIME. The fix is made not earlier than 1 hour before nor later 

than 1⁄2 hour after scheduled fix time. 

 EARLY. The fix is made from 1 hour before scheduled fix time to 
5-21 

one-half of the time interval to the preceding scheduled fix, not to exceed 3 hours. 

 LATE. The fix is made within the interval from 1⁄2 hour after 

scheduled fix time to one-half of the time interval to the succeeding scheduled fix, not to exceed 

3 hours. 

 MISSED. Data are not obtained within the parameters specified 

for on-time, early, or late. 

[NOTE: Appropriate credit will be given when the aircraft arrives in the requested area but is 

unable to locate a center due to storm dissipation or rapid movement. Credit will also be given 

for radar fixes if penetration is not possible due to geographic or other flight restrictions.] 

 5.6.1.2. Tropical Cyclone Investigative Missions. 

 ON-TIME. An observation must be taken within 250 nm of the 

specified coordinates by the scheduled time. 

 LATE. An observation is taken within 250 nm of the specified 

coordinates after the scheduled time but not later than the scheduled time plus 2 hours. 

 MISSED. When the aircraft fails to be within the 250 nm of the 

specific coordinates by the scheduled time plus 2 hours or is unable to provide meaningful data. 

 5.6.1.3. Synoptic Surveillance Missions. 

 SATISFIED. Requirements are considered satisfied upon 

completion of the assigned track and the acquired dropwindsonde data are transmitted from the 

aircraft prior to the HPC/OPC deadline for synoptic analysis. 

 MISSED. When the requirements listed above are not satisfied. 

 5.6.2. Mission Assessment. The TPC/NHC or CPHC will provide CARCAH a written 

assessment of the reconnaissance mission anytime its timeliness or quality is outstanding or 

substandard (see Figure 5-8). Mission requirements levied as "resources permitting" will not be 

assessed for timeliness but may be assessed for quality of data gathered. 

 5.6.3. Summaries. CARCAH will maintain monthly and seasonal reconnaissance 

summaries, detailing requirements tasked by TPC/NHC and CPHC and missions accomplished. 

5.7. Aerial Reconnaissance Weather Encoding, Reporting, and Coordination. 

 5.7.1. Vortex Data. A vortex data message (Figure 5-4) will be prepared for all fixes, 

using all observed vortex fix information, each time the aircraft penetrates the center. 

 5.7.2. Center Fix Data. When proximity to land, air traffic control restriction, or other 

factors prevent actual penetration of the vortex by the reconnaissance aircraft, it is permissible to 

fix the cyclone by radar. Radar fixes may be reported in a vortex data message using available 

observed information or as a remark appended to a RECCO observation taken at fix time. The 

remark stating the type of radar fix and quality of the radar presentation is in accordance with 

Chapter 7, paragraph 7.3.2; e.g., RADAR CENTER FIX 21.5N 83.0W, POOR RADAR 

PRESENTATION, NAV ACCURACY 5NM. 
5-22 

 5.7.3. Peripheral Data. Storm penetration and collection of peripheral data will 

normally begin at the operational altitude approximately 105 nm from the center as determined 

by the flight meteorologist. 

 5.7.4. Mission Coordination. Mission coordination for all missions will be 

accomplished through CARCAH. Meteorological discussions for Central Pacific missions may 

be accomplished directly with the CPHC; however, any changes to tasking will be accomplished 

through CARCAH. 

 5.7.5. Post-flight Debriefing. Unless otherwise directed, the flight meteorologist will 

provide either an airborne or post-flight debriefing to the appropriate hurricane center through 

CARCAH to ensure all observations were received and understood. 

MISSION EVALUATION FORM 

MEMORANDUM FOR: OL-A, 53WRS/CARCAH 

FROM: (Director, NHC, CPHC) . 

SUBJECT: Mission Evaluation 

 (Mission Identifier) 

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS: 

 Premission Coordinates (As Updated Prior to TKO)_____________________N___________________W 

 Flight Pattern __________________________________________________________________________ 

 Mission Requirements Times ______________________________________________________________ 

RECONNAISSANCE MISSION PERFORMANCE: 

 Flight Flown: _____Completely _____Partially _____Other 

 Horizontal Data Coverage: _____Complete _____Timely _____Accurate 

 _____Incomplete _____Untimely _____Inaccurate 

 Vertical Data Coverage: _____Complete _____Timely _____Accurate 

 _____Incomplete _____Untimely _____Inaccurate 

 Requirements Accomplished: _____On Time _____Early _____Late 

 _____Missed 

OVERALL MISSION EVALUATION: 

 OUTSTANDING____________ 

 UNSATISFACTORY____________ FOR: 

 COMPLETENESS____________ TIMELINESS____________ ACCURACY____________ 

 EQUIPMENT_______________ PROCEDURES____________ OTHER_______________ 

REMARKS: (Brief but specific) 

________________________ 

FORECASTER's SIGNATURE 

Figure 5-8. Mission Evaluation Form

 5.7.6. Mission Identifier. Regular weather and hurricane reconnaissance messages will 
5-23 

include the five-digit agency/aircraft indicator followed by the CARCAH-assigned 

mission/storm-system indicator. Table 5-3 summarizes elements of the mission identifier: 

 5.7.7. Storm Identifier <Storm ID>. To facilitate the automatic ingest into the 

TPC/NHC, CPHC, and DOD tropical cyclone forecast computing systems, the storm identifier 

will be added 3 spaces after the Vortex Data Message title (see Figure 5-5) in the following 

format: Vortex Data Message BBCCYYYY. For the definition of BBCCYYYY, see Chapter 

4, paragraph 4.3.3., page 4-2. 

Table 5-3. Elements of the Mission Identifier 

AGENCY/ 

AIRCRAFT Mission Storm System Indicator 

Agency + Aircraft 

Number12

Sequential number 

of mission in this 

storm 

Two-digit depression 

number or two letter 

identifier if not a 

depression or greater3

Location 

A, E, C, or W4

Storm name or mission 

type (i.e., CYCLONE 

or INVEST 

-EXAMPLESAF306 0201C CYCLONE 

USAF aircraft 306 on the second mission on tropical depression 

number 1 in the Central Pacific. Invest or fix as specified in the 

TCPOD. 

AF307 0403E CARLOS USAF aircraft 307 on the fourth mission on tropical depression 3 which 

formed in the Eastern Pacific and acquired the name Carlos. 

NOAA2 01BBA INVEST NOAA aircraft 42RF on the first mission to investigate the second 

suspect area in the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico or Caribbean. 

NOAA3 WX01A AGNES NOAA aircraft 43RF on a non-tasked mission into AGNES. 

 5.7.8. Observation Numbering and Content. Air Force aircraft movement 

information (i.e., departure time and location, and ETA’s to locations) will not be included in 

observation remarks. That information should be passed to CARCAH via SATCOM 

administrative messages. The mission identifier will be the first mandatory remark followed by 

the observation number. All observations (RECCO, vortex, dropsonde) from the first to the last 

will be numbered sequentially. HDOBs will be automatically numbered sequentially but 

separately from other observations. When an aircraft is diverted from its original mission to 

fulfill TPC/NHC requirements, conclude the original mission by using the last report remark. 

The next observation from the diverted aircraft will use the CARCAH-assigned mission 

identifier, will be numbered OB 01, and will include the time of diversion. 

-EXAMPLERMK AF306 0lBBA INVEST OB 01 DPTD AF306 WXWXA AT 05/1235Z 

5.7.9 Corrections to Observations. A correction indicator should be appended to the 

 

1

 AF plus last 3 digits of tail number 

2

 NOAA, plus last digit of aircraft registration number 

3

 The letters CC should not be used in an invest identifier 

4

 A=Atlantic, Caribbean, or Gulf of Mexico; E=Eastern Pacific; C=Central Pacific; W=Western Pacific 
5-24 

WMO abbreviated header after the date/time group and to any lines containing the mission 

identifier and observation number within corrected aircraft messages. This includes the first 

remark line in a RECCO, Item P in a vortex data, each of the 61616 lines in a sonde TEMP 

DROP code, and the second line in an HDOB data message. The first corrected message will 

have an indicator of CCA; subsequent corrections will have indicators of CCB, CCC, etc. 

Examples of corrected observations are in Table 5-4 below: 

Table 5-4. Examples of Corrected Observations

EXAMPLES 

URNT11 KNHC 111629 CCA 

97779 16264 51286 90000 30400 09054 11071 /3136 

40545 

RMK AF303 2709A IKE OB 01 CCA

Correction for RECCO message OB 

01 from the AF303 02709A IKE 

mission.

URNT12 KNHC 130552 CCB 

VORTEX DATA MESSAGE AL092008 

A. 13/04:47:20Z 

B. 28 deg 52 min N 

 094 deg 37 min W 

 . 

 . 

 . 

P. AF301 3509A IKE OB 02 CCB 

MAX FL WIND 103 KT NE QUAD 04:30:40 Z 

CORRECTED FOR TIME IN ITEM A

Second correction for vortex data 

message OB 02 from the AF301 

3509A IKE mission.

UZNT13 KWBC 080739 CCA 

XXAA 58062 99300 70760 11606 99/// ///// ///// 00956 25616 09512 

 . 

 . 

 . 

61616 NOAA9 1109A IKE OB 03 CCA 

62626 0629 LST WND 894 AEV 20704 CORRECTED RPT DLM WND 

08509 0071 

82 = 

XXBB 58068 99300 70760 11606 00/// ///// 11007 26217 22977 24010 

 . 

 . 

 . 

61616 NOAA9 1109A IKE OB 03 CCA 

62626 0629 LST WND 894 AEV 20704 CORRECTED RPT DLM WND 

08509 0071 

82 =

Correction for sonde TEMP DROP 

code message OB 03 from the NOAA9 

1109A IKE mission.

5.8. Operational Flight Patterns. This section details the operational flight patterns that 

provide vortex and peripheral data on tropical and subtropical cyclones. 

 5.8.1. Flight Pattern ALPHA Operational Details.

 5.8.1.1. Flight Levels and Sequence. Flight levels will normally be 1,500 ft, 

925 hPa, 850 hPa, or 700 hPa, depending on data requirements and flight safety. Legs will 

normally be 105 nm long and flown on intercardinal tracks (45 degrees off cardinal tracks). The 

flight sequence is shown in Figure 5-9. The pattern can be started at any intercardinal point and 
5-25 

then repeated throughout the mission. Prior to starting an inbound or outbound track the aircrew 

should evaluate all available data, e.g., radar presentation, satellite photo, for flight safety. Once 

started on course, every effort should be made to maintain a straight track and the tasked altitude. 

A horizontal observation is required at each leg end point. This data is transmitted immediately. 

The ALPHA pattern may be modified to satisfy unique customer requirements (such as 

extending legs to examine the wind profile of a strong storm) or because of proximity of land or 

warning areas. 

Figure 5-9. Flight Pattern ALPHA

 5.8.1.2. Vortex fix data. On each transit of the center a fix will be made and a 

vortex data message completed, using data gathered on the inbound track since the previous fix 

and will be transmitted immediately. Center dropsonde data will also be provided for scheduled 

fixes made at 850 hPa or above. The dropsonde will be released at the flight-level center 

coordinates (item BRAVO of the vortex data message). For fixes when dropsonde-measured 

SLP is not available, an extrapolated SLP will be computed and reported. 

 5.8.2. Investigative Missions. An investigative mission is tasked on tropical 

disturbances to determine the existence or non-existence of a closed circulation, supply 

reconnaissance observations in required areas, and locate the vortex center, if any. 

 5.8.2.1. Flight Levels. Flight level will normally be at or below 1,500 ft 

absolute altitude but may be adjusted as dictated by data requirements, meteorological 

conditions, or flying safety factors. 

 5.8.2.2. Vortex Fix. A vortex data message is required if a vortex fix is made. 

 5.8.2.3. Closed Circulation. A closed circulation is supported by at least one 

sustained wind reported in each quadrant of the cyclone. Surface winds are preferred. 

 5.8.2.4. Flight Pattern. The preferred approach is to fly to the tasked 

coordinates of the forecasted center and then execute a pattern as observed conditions dictate. 

Suggested patterns are the X, Box, or Delta patterns, but the flight meteorologist may choose any 

approach. See Figure 5-10. Turns are usually made to take advantage of tailwinds whenever 
5-26 

possible. Note: The depicted pattern may be converted to a mirror image if entry is made from a 

different direction. 

 On the X pattern, the aircraft is turned to head directly towards the 

center, as indicated by the surface or flight level winds. The aircraft is flown through the calm 

center until winds from the opposite direction occur (second quadrant). The aircraft is then 

turned to a cardinal heading until a wind shift occurs (third quadrant). Finally, the aircraft is 

turned towards the center and flown straight through the center to the last quadrant. 

 On the Box pattern, the aircraft is flown on cardinal headings 

around the suspected center. The track resembles three sides of a square. 

 On the Delta pattern, the aircraft is flown on a cardinal heading to 

pass 60 nm from the forecasted center. After observing a wind shift (second quadrant) the 

aircraft is turned to pass through the center until winds from the opposite direction occur (third 

quadrant). Finally, the aircraft is turned on a cardinal heading (parallel to the initial heading) to 

pick up the fourth quadrant winds. If data indicate that the aircraft is far north of any existing 

circulation, the pattern is extended as shown by the dashed lines. 

 5.8.3. Synoptic Surveillance Missions. A synoptic surveillance mission is tasked to 

measure the large-scale wind and thermodynamic fields within approximately 800 nautical miles 

of tropical cyclones. Specific flight tracks will vary depending on storm location and synoptic 

situation, and multiple aircraft may be required to satisfy surveillance mission requirements. 

 5.8.4. Eyewall and Outer-Wind Field Sampling Modules. These are patterns of 

dropwindsonde releases designed to measure the maximum surface wind, as well as the extent of 

hurricane and tropical storm force surface winds. They are meant to be flown using the 

operational alpha pattern. Dropwindsonde releases in these modules are in addition to any other 

releases required by Table 5-1. 

 5.8.4.1. Eyewall Module. While executing a standard alpha pattern to satisfy 

a fix requirement, one sounding will be taken during each inbound and outbound passage 

through the eyewall (except as noted below), for a total of four soundings. The releases should 

be made at or just inward (within 1-2 km) of the flight-level radius of maximum wind (RMW). 

If the radar presentation is suitable, the inner edge of the radar eyewall may be used to identify 

the release point. If possible, and when resources and safety permit, two dropwindsondes, 

spaced less than 30 seconds apart, should be deployed on the inbound leg on the side of the 

storm believed to have the highest surface winds (normally the right-hand side). In this case, the 

outer of the two releases should be made at the RMW, with the second release following as soon 

as possible. Typically, the eyewall module will be tasked within 48 hours of a forecasted 

hurricane landfall. 
5-27 

Figure 5-10. Suggested Patterns for Investigative Missions

 5.8.4.2. Outer-Wind Field Module. On an alpha pattern, deploy 

dropwindsondes at 50 nm intervals from the center on each of two successive inbound and 

outbound legs, outward to 200 nm. A release should also be made at the midpoint of the cross 

(downwind) leg, for a total of 17 soundings. The length of the legs and the sounding interval 

may be adjusted, depending on the size of the storm. 

5.9. Aircraft Reconnaissance Communications.

 5.9.1. General. The 53 WRS WC-130 and NOAA WP-3D aircraft will normally 

transmit reconnaissance observations via the Air Force Satellite Communications System 

(AFSATCOM) or commercial SATCOM. Figures 5-11 and 5-12 depict the ASDL and 

AFSATCOM communications links. The NOAA G-IV will normally transmit WMO Temp 

Drop messages via commercial SATCOM. Flight meteorologists should contact CARCAH 

following the first fix, and periodically throughout the mission. 

 5.9.2. Backup Air-to-Ground Communications. The weather reconnaissance crew 

may relay weather data via SATPHONE or HF phone patch to the weather data monitor. 

Monitors will evaluate these reports and disseminate them through the Air Force's Automated 

Weather Network (AWN) or to the weather communications facility at Suitland, Maryland. 

Specific radio procedures and terminology will comply with Allied Communications Publication 

125, Standard Telephone and Radio Procedures.

 5.9.3. Aircraft-to-Satellite Data Link (ASDL) Equipped Aircraft. Aircraft equipped 

with ASDL have the option to utilize the ASDL system. Prior to the beginning of the hurricane 

season, each ASDL-equipped aircraft will perform a ground or airborne test of the equipment 

and data ground handling procedures to determine the equipment reliability, transmission errors, 

and time lapse between transmission of the data from the aircraft and receipt of the data by the 

hurricane forecaster. Test data will be forwarded to the Chairman, Working Group for Hurricane 

and Winter Storms Operations and Research. 
5-28 

 5.9.4. Backup CARCAH Procedures. Satellite ground stations, which are used to 

receive and process data from AFRC reconnaissance aircraft, are installed at CARCAH and the 

53 WRS. The 53 WRS ground station has a similar configuration and communications 

capability as the satellite ground station installed a CARCAH (located within TPC/NHC), except 

that the CARCAH ground station has additional capability to stream data using serial RS-232 

communications to TPC/NHC local servers. The ground station at the 53 WRS can fully 

transmit data using SATCOM and land line to the CARCAH ground station. Both ground 

stations can send data to AFWA’s Weather Product Management and Distribution System 

(WPMDS)—WPMDS then relays all AFRC/53 WRS reconnaissance data to the NWS Gateway 

for world-wide distribution. In the event that backup procedures are required due to severe 

communications failures, severe weather conditions, or other extreme events affecting 

TPC/NHC, all CARCAH responsibility will be transferred to the 53 WRS to ensure 

reconnaissance service is uninterrupted. 

 5.9.4.1. Satellite antenna communications failure at NHC: CARCAH will 

coordinate with the 53 WRS to have a temporary operator man the ground station located at the 

backup site. The Alternate CARCAH backup site ground station will be configured to relay 

aircraft data to the CARCAH ground station. If the outage at CARCAH is expected to be 

temporary, the 53WRS will provide operators to man the Alternate CARCAH ground station. For 

long-term outages, CARCAH will send operators to the 53 WRS, and those operators will ensure 

the aircraft data are transmitted to the WPMDS, NWS servers, and external users via the NWS 

Gateway.

 5.9.4.2. In the event communications lines between the 53 WRS and NHC are 

severed, the ground station at the 53 WRS will be configured to transmit data directly to the 

WPMDS. The current version of ground station software does not have the capability to directly 

send data to HPC (NHC's COOP backup site); consequently, all data or observations will need to 

be accessed from the WPMDS or obtained from the NWS Gateway. 

 5.9.4.3. TPC/NHC emergency backup plan: In the event that TPC/NHC 

activates the HPC COOP backup plan, the designated CARCAH individual will deploy to the 

53WRS to operate the ground station system. The HPC COOP site will obtain the 

reconnaissance data through either the WPMDS or the NWS Gateway. 
5-29 

Figure 5-11. Schematic of Aircraft-To-Satellite Data Link for NOAA P-3 Aircraft
5-30 

 Figure 5-12. Schematic of Aircraft-To-Satellite Data Link for AFRC WC-130 Aircraft

Note: A new Internet link from Keesler AFB to TPC/NHC is operational beginning in the 2008 storm 

season. All observation types can be passed directly to TPC/NHC without going through Offutt. 

Internet link (see 

note below)
6-1 

CHAPTER 6 

SATELLITE SURVEILLANCE OF TROPICAL AND SUBTROPICAL CYCLONES 

6.1. Satellites. 

6.1.1. Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES). Using modern 

3-axis stabilization for orbit control, GOES-12 at 75W and GOES-11 at 135W support the 

operational two-GOES constellation. Independent imager and sounder instruments eliminate the 

need to time share, yielding an increase in spatial coverage of image and sounder data at more 

frequent scanning intervals. The GOES also provides higher resolution and additional spectral 

channels than its predecessor, affording the hydrometeorological community improvements in 

detection, monitoring, and analysis of developing tropical cyclones. From 135W and 75W, 

routine GOES satellite data coverage is extensive, stretching from the central Pacific through the 

Americas to the eastern Atlantic, including the vital breeding grounds for tropical cyclones. 

Routinely, each GOES schedule provides two views of the CONUS (GOES-11 view is 

termed PACUS) every 15 minutes. More frequent interval scans can be employed to support 

NOAA's warning programs, including the tracking of tropical and subtropical cyclones. 

Government agencies and the private sector have access to digital data transmissions directly 

from NOAAPORT, from NOAA’s Environmental Satellite Processing Center (ESPC), or 

directly from GOES. 

The current series of GOES satellites provide satellite data generated from full resolution 

imager and sounder data. Imagery at 1, 4, and 8 km resolution is available for daytime and 

nighttime applications. The increased resolution of the satellite imagery is a vast improvement 

from previous satellites. Visible data are available at 1 km, “shortwave” infrared (channel 2 

data) as well as the infrared channels 4 and 5 are available at 4 km resolution, and water vapor 

(channel 3) is available at 8 km resolution on GOES-11 and 4 km resolution on GOES-12. 

Channel 2 data are valuable for the detection of low clouds, fog, stratus, and surface hot spots; 

channel 5 data, available on GOES-11, in combination with data from channels 2 and/or 4 are 

useful for detecting volcanic ash in the atmosphere. On GOES-12, channel 6 is a 13.3 μm band 

at 8 km that is useful in the detection of CO2. Channel 6 improves the measurement of the height 

of clouds and volcanic ash, thus improving computer model forecasts and ash warnings to the 

aviation community. The digital data may be enhanced to emphasize different features as 

desired. A suite of digital data and environmental products is available to users in the National 

Weather Service (NWS); the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service 

(NESDIS); other Federal agencies; the academic community; and many private agencies, both 

national and international. These data are made available through NOAAPORT, from ESPC, the 

Internet, and other means such as local networks. 

 6.1.1.1. GOES-12. GOES-12, launched July 23, 2001, supports the GOES-East 

station at 75W and serves NOAA operations, to include the TPC/NHC, other Federal agencies, 

and the private sector. Various imager channels at higher resolutions are being utilized to 

monitor the intensification and movement of tropical cyclones over the Atlantic Ocean and a 

portion of the East Pacific. In particular, greater detail in the imagery facilitates tropical cyclone 
6-2 

monitoring and analysis, and the use of the GOES imager channel 2 has vastly improved the 

detection of low-level circulation centers at night to assist in storm positioning. Retrievals from 

the GOES sounder are being incorporated into NCEP's numerical models to improve model 

output. In addition, sounder data are being exploited to generate derived product imagery such 

as total precipitable water, atmospheric stability indices, surface temperatures and cloud heights. 

During the 1996 hurricane season, NESDIS instituted a specialized GOES-East sounder 

schedule consisting of four sectors covering distinct areas of the Atlantic Ocean. Of the four 

sounder sectors, the CONUS sector is scanned every hour and covers the northern Gulf of 

Mexico and the east coast of the United States. During routine scanning operations, of the other 

3 sounder sectors (the Gulf of Mexico, North Atlantic, and the East Caribbean) the Gulf of 

Mexico sector is designated as the “primary OCONUS” (off CONUS) sector and is scanned 4 

times in a 6 hour period, while the other two sectors are only scanned once in every 6 hour 

period. Event driven, this “primary OCONUS” sounder sector can be changed by the TPC/NHC. 

The "primary" OCONUS sector provides frequent scans over the area of interest to generate 

vertical profiles of temperature and moisture, and additional derived environmental products 

such as atmospheric winds. 

 6.1.1.2. GOES-11. GOES-11 was launched on May 3, 2000, and supports the 

GOES-West station at 135W. The routine scanning mode of GOES-11 provides coverage of 

the Northern and Southern Hemisphere eastern Pacific Ocean as well as the western United 

States. The GOES-West satellite also supports the missions of both the TPC/NHC and the 

CPHC, and provides coverage of developing tropical cyclones over the East and Central Pacific. 

The DOD and other Federal agencies are also supported. 

 During the 2008 Central Pacific hurricane season, NESDIS instituted a specialized 

GOES-West sounder schedule consisting of additional Hawaii sectors. During routine operation, 

the GOES-West sounder scans two Hawaii and four North Pacific sectors. To aid in the 

surveillance and input of additional sounder data into hurricane models, the Central Pacific 

Hurricane Sector (CPHC) can request the alternate GOES-West sounder schedule that replaced 

two North Pacific sectors with two Hawaii sectors, allowing for four Hawaii sector scans and 

two North Pacific sector scans in a six-hour period. 

 6.1.1.3. GOES-13. GOES-13 was launched on May 24, 2006. GOES-13 carries 

the same imager and instrumentation capabilities as GOES-12. GOES-13 is stored on orbit at 

105°W until required to replace either of the older operational satellites. 

 6.1.1.4. GOES-10. GOES-10 was launched on April 25, 1997. GOES-10 was 

used as the primary GOES-West satellite until it was replaced by GOES-11 on June 21, 2006, 

due to the low fuel reserves on GOES-10. In 2007, NOAA signed an agreement with several 

countries in South America to use GOES-10 for operations. Since then, GOES-10 has been 

operating as the primary satellite covering South America and its adjacent waters. During an 

emergency outage of GOES-12 in December 2007, NOAA switched GOES-East operations to 

GOES-10. GOES-10 imager and sounder are similar to GOES-11, with a 5 channel imager with 

a 12 micron channel and 8 km water vapor channel, and a 19 channel imager at 10 km. In 2009, 
6-3 

the GOES-10 sounder was powered off due to an irreversible anomaly to the sounder filter 

wheel. 

(NOTE: For GOES imager/sounding schedules go to http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/PS/SATS/) 

 6.1.2. EUMETSAT Meteosat Geostationary Satellites. Meteosat-9, launched 

December 21, 2005, replaced Meteosat-8 on April 11, 2007, and provides vital coverage of 

developing tropical waves off the African Coast and eastern Atlantic Ocean. Conventionally, the 

full disk IR, visible (VIS), and water vapor imagery have a 3 km resolution whereas a specialized 

VIS sector provides a maximum 1 km resolution. This visible sector has a limited scan, and will 

shift from the West Indian Ocean to the East Atlantic Ocean from 14:00 UTC to 01:00 UTC 

every day during hurricane season. This shift will ensure interests monitoring for tropical 

activity in the North Indian Ocean (Meteo-France) as well as the East Atlantic (TPC) will be 

satisfied. The digital data are transmitted to NESDIS and NCEP at the NOAA Science Center 

(NSC) in Camp Springs, MD, every 15 minutes. They are also available to the TPC and the 

Storm Prediction Center (SPC) through an encrypted DOMestic SATellite (DOMSAT) relay and 

through direct transmission from ESPC. 

 In December 1995, EUMETSAT, the program administrator, began encrypting digital 

Meteosat data 24 hours per day to regulate use within Europe. Based on international data policy 

agreements, U.S. non-government users are allowed access via a domestic satellite to nonencrypted Meteosat data 4 times per day at synoptic times; at other times, the data are encrypted. 

Hence, if quarter-hourly transmissions are required to support operational requirements, it is 

necessary for users to register with EUMETSAT to acquire decryption devices for installation at 

their local site (NOAA/DOD and other U.S. government agencies are registered). 

 6.1.3. MTSAT-1R. The Multifunctional Transport Satellite-1 Replacement (MTSAT1R) was launched for the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) on February 26, 2005. 

MTSAT-1R is located at 140° East, covering the West Pacific Ocean, East Asia, and the East 

Indian Ocean. MTSAT-1R is similar to GOES as it carries a 5-channel imager (one visible 

channel at 1 km plus four IR channels at 5 km, to include a new low-light IR channel). MTSAT1R provides imagery for the Northern Hemisphere every 30 minutes, and JMA makes the data 

available to 27 countries and territories in the region. Data from MTSAT-1R is available to 

CONUS users via the DOMSAT or directly from ESPC and available to Pacific OCONUS users 

directly via downlinks in Hawaii and Guam. 

6.1.4. Initial Joint Polar System (IJPS). Two primary operational polar orbiting 

satellites, NOAA’s NOAA-19 and EUMETSAT’s MetOp-A, provide image coverage four times 

a day over a respective area in 6 spectral channels (however only 5 channels can be supported at 

one time; channel switching is used to support the 6th channel). These satellites cross the U.S. 

twice per day at 12-hour intervals for each geographical area near the Equatorial crossing times 

listed in Table 6-1. NOAA-19 and MetOp-A provide the same capabilities as previous NOAA 

satellites, except that the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit–B (AMSU-B) sensor flown 

aboard NOAA-17 and previous polar orbiters has been replaced by the Microwave Humidity 

Sounder (MHS) on NOAA-19. Data are available via direct readout—high-resolution picture 

transmission (HRPT) or automatic picture transmission (APT)—or via central processing. Data 
6-4 

from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) on NOAA-19 and the 

corresponding Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer (VIIRS) on board MetOp-A are available on 

a limited basis through the GOES distribution system (Figure 6-1). The Air Force Weather 

Agency (AFWA), Offutt AFB, NE, receives global NOAA imagery data direct from central 

readout sites on a pass-by-pass basis. The Command and Data Acquisition (CDA) stations at 

Fairbanks, AK, and Wallops, VA, acquire recorded global area coverage data sub-sampled to a 4 

km spatial resolution, and then route the data to NESDIS computer facilities in Suitland, MD, 

where the data are processed and distributed to the NOAA, the DOD, and private communities. 

Ground equipment installed at various NWS regions including Kansas City, Miami (TPC), and 

Monterey enable direct readout and data processing of 1.1 km resolution AVHRR and VIIRS 

data from NOAA-19 and MetOp-A. The high resolution polar data and products generated at 

TPC complement other satellite data sources to support tropical mission objectives. 

6.2. National Weather Service (NWS) Support.

6.2.1. Station Contacts. The GOES imagery is available in support of the surveillance 

of tropical and subtropical cyclones at specific NWS offices. Satellite meteorologists can be 

contacted at these offices; telephone numbers are in Appendix I. 

6.2.2. Products. Satellite-related products are listed in Table 3-5, “Summary of 

Products and their Associated WMO Header.” 

 6.2.2.1. Tropical Weather Discussions. TPC/NHC issues these discussions four 

times a day based on satellite imagery, meteorological analysis, weather observations and radar. 

They describe significant features and significant weather areas for the Gulf of Mexico, the 

Caribbean, and between the equator and 32N in both the Atlantic and eastern Pacific east of 

140W. 

 6.2.2.2. Satellite Interpretation Messages. CPHC issues these discussions four 

times a day to describe synoptic features and significant weather areas in the vicinity of the 

Hawaiian Islands. WFO Guam issues these discussions two times a day to describe synoptic 

features and significant weather over the Micronesian waters. 

6.3 NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch (SAB). The SAB operates 24 hours a day to provide 

satellite support to the HPC/OPC, TPC, CPHC, JTWC, and other worldwide users. In addition 

to providing high quality imagery from geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites and 

coordinating the execution of GOES Rapid Scan Operations (RSO) requests, SAB provides 

pertinent information on global tropical cyclone development, including location and intensity 

analysis based on the Dvorak technique (Table 6-1). For numerical model input and forecasting 

applications, data from high density cloud motion wind vectors, high density water vapor wind 

vectors, four layers of derived precipitable water from sounder moisture retrievals, and tropical 

rainfall estimates are provided to HPC and TPC. In addition, estimates of cumulative rainfall 

expected over coastal areas derived using the Tropical Rainfall Potential (TRaP) methodology 

are provided for tropical storms within 24 hours of landfall and posted to a web site in support of 

CPHC, HPC, TPC, forecast offices in U.S. territories, and international customers. Telephone 

numbers for the SAB are located in Appendix H. 
6-5 

Figure 6-1. The GOES Satellite System
6-6 

Table 6-1. Communications Headings for SAB Dvorak Analysis Products

WMO HEADING OCEANIC AREA TYPE OF DATA 

TXPN20-29 KNES North West Pacific Ocean west of 180o VIS/IR 

TXPS20-29 KNES South Pacific Ocean east of 135 oE VIS/IR 

TXIO20-29 KNES North Indian Ocean VIS/IR 

TXXS20-29 KNES South Indian Ocean west of 135oE VIS/IR 

6.4. Air Force Support and the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP). Data 

covering the National Hurricane Operations Plan areas of interest are received centrally at the 

Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) and distributed to the Air Force’s Operational Weather 

Squadrons (OWS) and the Navy’s Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center 

(FNMOC) at Monterey, CA. Satellite data covering the Central Pacific area are received at or 

shipped to the 17th OWS Meteorological Satellite Operations (SATOPS) Flight (17 OWS/WXJ), 

Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Pearl Harbor, HI. The 17 OWS/WXJ uses all available 

meteorological satellite data when providing fix and or intensity information to Central Pacific 

Hurricane Center forecasters. 

 6.4.1. Central Pacific Surveillance. The 17 OWS/WXJ (JTWC Satellite Operations) 

will provide, resources permitting, fix and intensity information to the CPHC on systems upon 

request. 

6.5. Satellites and Satellite Data Availability for the Current Hurricane Season. Table 

6-2 lists satellite capabilities for the current hurricane season. 

6.6. Current Intensity and Tropical Classification Number. The current intensity (C.I.) 

number relates directly to the intensity of the storm. The empirical relationship between the C.I. 

number and a storm's wind speed is shown in Table 6-3. The C.I. number is the same as the 

tropical classification number (T-number) during the development stages of a tropical cyclone 

but is held higher than the T-number while a cyclone is weakening. This is done because a lag is 

often observed between the time a storm pattern indicates weakening has begun and the time 

when the storm's intensity decreases. An added benefit of this rule is the stability it adds to the 

analysis when short-period fluctuations in the cloud pattern occur. In practice, the C.I. number is 

not lowered until the T-number has shown weakening for 12 hours or more. 
6-7 

Table 6-2. Satellite and Satellite Data Availability for the Current Hurricane Season

SATELLITE TYPE OF 

DATA LOCAL TIME PRODUCTS 

GOES-10 

at 60oW 

(supporting 

South America) 

GOES-11 

at 135°W 

GOES-12 

at 75°W 

GOES-13 

(on-orbit storage 

at 105°W) 

Multispectral 

Imager and 

Sounder 

5 Channels for 

Imager 

19 Channels for 

Sounder (not 

opera-tional for 

GOES-10) 

GOES-10 is providing 15 

minute imager data and hourly 

sounder data covering South 

America 

GOES-11 and GOES-12: 

Every 30 min, in Routine Scan 

Mode, provides 3 sectors with 

prescribed coverages: 

Northern Hemisphere (NH) or 

Extended NH; CONUS or 

PACUS; and Southern 

Hemisphere. Exception is 

transmission of full disk every 

3 hours. (Available Rapid 

Scan Operations yield 

increased transmissions to 7.5 

minute intervals to capture 

rapidly changing, dynamic 

weather events). 

1. 1, 2, 4, and 8 km resolution visible 

standard sectors. 

2. 4 km equivalent resolution IR sectors. 

3. Equivalent and full resolution IR 

enhanced imagery. 

4. Full disk IR every 3 hours. 

5. 8 km water vapor sectors.(4 km on 

GOES-12) 

6. Quantitative precipitation estimates; high 

density cloud and water vapor motion wind 

vectors; and experimental visible and 

sounder winds. 

7. Operational moisture sounder data 

(precipitable water) in four levels for 

inclusion in NCEP numerical models. Other 

sounder products including gradient winds, 

vertical temperature and moisture profiles, 

mid-level winds, and derived product 

imagery (precipitable water, lifted index, and 

surface skin temperature). 

8. Tropical storm monitoring and derivation 

of intensity analysis. 

9. Volcanic ash monitoring and 

dissemination of Volcanic Ash Advisory 

Statements. 

10. Daily northern hemisphere snow cover 

analysis. 

11. Twice daily fire and smoke analysis over 

specific areas within CONUS. 
6-8 

Table 6-2 (continued). Satellite and Satellite Data Availability for the Current Hurricane Season

SATELLITE TYPE OF 

DATA LOCAL TIME PRODUCTS 

METEOSAT-9 Multi-spectral 

Spin-Scan 

Radiometer 

(SEVIRI) and 

High 

Resolution 

Visible (HRV) 

SEVIRI: Full disk image 

every 15 minutes. 

HRV: Sector scan to move 

with local noon. 

1. 1 km resolution digital VIS imagery 

(HRV); 3 km resolution digital IR imagery 

(SEVIRI. 

2. 3 km resolution VIS and IR WEFAX 

imagery. 

3. 3 km water vapor imagery. 

4. Tropical storm monitoring and derivation 

of intensity analysis. 

5. Volcanic ash detection and analysis. 

MTSAT-1R Multi-band 

imager (Visible 

plus 4 IR 

channels)

Hourly Full disk and two 

Northern Hemisphere scans 

per hour, with special 

“quadrant” scans four per 

hour.

1. 1 km resolution digital VIS imagery 

2. 5 km resolution digital IR imagery and 

water vapor 

4. Tropical storm monitoring and derivation 

of intensity analysis. 

5. Volcanic ash detection and analysis 

TRMM (NASA 

Tropical Rainfall 

Measuring 

Mission) 

85 and 37 GHz 

Microwave 

Fluctuates from 30°N to 30°S 1. 15 km resolution microwave coverage of 

the tropics from 30°S to 30°N. 

2. Microwave analysis of 85 and 37 GHz 

radiance composited passes. 

3. Brightness temperature products of the 85 

and 37 GHz horizontal and vertical 

polarization. Derived rain-rate products.

MetOp-A 

NOAA-19 

AVHRR; GAC 

and LAC 

(recorded); 

HRPT (direct); 

AMSU-A; 

AMSU-B (N17); MHS (N18); HIRS 

VIIRS 1 km 

global 

0931D1/209A2

0156D/1356A 

1. 1 km resolution HRPT and Local Area 

Coverage (LAC) data. 

2. 4 km resolution APT and Global Area 

Coverage (GAC) data. 

3. Mapped imagery. 

4. Unmapped imagery (all data types) at 

DMSP sites. 

5. Sea-surface temperature analysis. 

6. Soundings. 

7. Moisture profiles. 

8. Remapped GAC sectors. 

9. Sounding-derived products--total 

precipitable water, rain rate, and surface 

winds under sounding 

10. Daily northern hemisphere snow cover 

analysis. 

11. Twice daily fire and smoke analysis over 

specific areas within CONUS. 

1

 D - descending 

2

 A - ascending 
6-9 

Table 6-2 (continued). Satellite and Satellite Data Availability for the Current Hurricane Season

SATELLITE TYPE OF DATA LOCAL TIME PRODUCTS 

DMSP F-13 

DMSP F-14 

DMSP F-15 

DMSP F-16 

DMSP F-17 

OLS Imagery (recorded and 

direct), SSM/I, SSM/T-1 

OLS Imagery (recorded and 

direct), SSM/I, SSM/T-1 

(inop), SSM/T-2 

OLS Imagery (recorded and 

direct), SSM/I, SSM/T-1, 

SSM/T-2 

OLS Imagery (recorded and 

direct), SSM/IS 

OLS Imagery (recorded and 

direct), SSM/IS 

0624D1

/1824A2

0424D/1624A 

0617D/1817A 

0732D/1932A 

0528D/1728A 

Note: Times are 

accurate to +/- 5 

minutes 

1. 0.3 nm (regional) and 1.5 nm (global) 

resolution (visual and infrared) imagery 

available via stored data recovery through 

AFWA. 

2. Regional coverage at 0.3 nm and 1.5 nm 

resolution (visual and infrared) imagery 

available from numerous DOD tactical 

terminals. 

3. SSM/T-1, SSM/T-2, SSM/I, and SSM/IS 

data transmitted to NESDIS and FNMOC 

from AFWA. 

1

 D - descending 

2

 A - ascending 

Table 6-3. The Empirical Relationship* between the C.I. Number and the Maximum Wind Speed 

and the Relationship between the T-Number and the Minimum Sea-Level Pressure (SLP) 

C.I. NUMBER MAXIMUM 

WIND SPEED T-NUMBER MINIMUM SLP (Atlantic) 

MINIMUM SLP 

(NW Pacific) 

1 25 kt 1 

1.5 25 1.5 

2 30 2 1009 hPa 1000 hPa 

2.5 35 2.5 1005 997 

3 45 3 1000 991 

3.5 55 3.5 994 984 

4 65 4 987 976 

4.5 77 4.5 979 966 

5 90 5 970 954 

5.5 102 5.5 960 941 

6 115 6 948 927 

6.5 127 6.5 935 914 

7 140 7 921 898 

7.5 155 7.5 906 879 

8 170 8 890 858 

*Dvorak, V, 1984: Tropical Cyclone Intensity Analysis Using Satellite Data. NOAA Tech Report NESDIS 11, Wash., D.C. 

7-1 

CHAPTER 7 

SURFACE RADAR REPORTING

7.1. General. Radar observations of tropical cyclones will be made at Department of Defense 

(DOD), National Weather Service (NWS), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Weather 

Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) facilities. Participating radar sites are listed in 

Table 7-1. 

7.2. The WSR-88D. The WSR-88D is a computerized radar data collection and processing 

system. The design and implementation of the WSR-88D was a joint effort of the DOD, NWS, 

and FAA, and the utilization of the radar continues to be governed by tri-agency agreement. The 

WSR-88D is an S-band (10-cm), coherent radar, with a nominal beam width of 1 degree. The 

maximum data ranges are 248 nm (reflectivity) and 124 nm (velocity), although velocity data out 

to 162 nm can be obtained from radars using “super-resolution.” Radar scanning strategies are 

selectable, using predetermined volume coverage patterns (VCPs). The VCP in use depends 

upon which weather phenomena are under surveillance. Once the radar data has been collected, 

it is processed automatically at the radar site by a suite of algorithms which provide graphical 

products for forecaster use. TPC/NHC, as an external user, obtains these products through a 

network connection. CPHC obtains products directly from four WSR-88Ds in Hawaii operated 

by the NWS Weather Forecast Office in Honolulu. 

7.3. Procedures. As a tropical cyclone approaches, TPC/NHC uses the WSR-88D to perform 

radar center-fixing and to obtain other diagnostic information. Therefore, it is important to 

optimize WSR-88D performance for tropical cyclones and to allow other users, especially the 

TPC/NHC, access to radar products in the area of landfall. Most of the changes must be issued 

through the Master System Control Function (MSCF), Radar Product Generator (RPG) Human 

Computer Interface (HCI). To facilitate this process, TPC/NHC in cooperation with the Radar 

Operations Center (ROC) has developed an operations plan for use during tropical cyclone 

events. The current WSR-88D Tropical Cyclone Operations Plan is available as a sub-link to the 

National Hurricane Operations Plan on the OFCM web site at 

http://www.ofcm.gov/homepage/text/pubs.htm. It is also available via fax from the ROC Hotline 

(1-800-643-3363). 

7.3.1. Radar Observation Requirements, WSR-88D. Chief among the requirements 

is the appropriate display of hurricane-force winds. Changes must be made at the radar site, 

guided by the WSR-88D Tropical Cyclone Operations Plan, in order to deal effectively with 

hurricane conditions. The physical characteristics of the tropical cyclone are best represented by 

use of the precipitation mode. Choice of VCP may significantly enhance (or degrade) collection 

of velocity data. (See WSR-88D Tropical Cyclone Operations Plan for further information.) 

Radar characteristics of hurricanes are given in Federal Meteorological Handbook Number 11 

(FMH-11), Part B, Chapter 9. Further discussion of product usage appears in FMH-11, Part D, 

Unit Description and Operational Applications. A recommended product list appears in FMH-11 

Part D, Application versus Product Table 4-3. 
7-2 

Table 7-1. Participating Radar Stations1

National Weather Service Radars: U.S. Gulf and Atlantic Coasts 

Location Radar Type Latitude Longitude 

Albany, NY 

Atlanta, GA 

Binghamton, NY 

Birmingham, AL 

Boston, MA 

Brandon/Jackson, MS 

Brownsville, TX 

Caribou, ME 

Charleston, SC 

Columbia, SC 

Corpus Christi, TX 

Ft. Worth, TX 

Greer, SC 

Houston, TX 

Huntsville/Hytop, AL 

Jacksonville, FL 

Key West, FL 

Lake Charles, LA 

Melbourne, FL 

Miami, FL 

Mobile, AL 

Morehead City, NC 

New Orleans/Baton Rouge, LA 

New York City, NY 

Philadelphia, PA 

Portland, ME 

Raleigh/Durham, NC 

Roanoke, VA 

San Antonio, TX 

Shreveport, LA 

State College, PA 

Sterling, VA 

Tallahassee, FL 

Tampa, FL 

Wakefield, VA 

Wilmington, NC 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

42°35' N 

33°22' N 

42°12' N 

33°10' N 

41°57' N 

32°17' N 

25°55' N 

46°02' N 

32°33' N 

32°39' N 

27°47' N 

32°34' N 

34°53' N 

29°28' N 

34°56' N 

30°29' N 

24°36' N 

30°07' N 

28°07' N 

25°37' N 

30°41' N 

34°46' N 

30°20' N 

40°52' N 

39°57' N 

43°53' N 

35°40' N 

37°01' N 

30°43' N 

32°27' N 

40°55' N 

38°58' N 

30°24' N 

27°42' N 

36°59' N 

33°59' N 

74°04' W 

84°34' W 

75°59' W 

86°46' W 

71°08' W 

89°59' W 

97°25' W 

67°48' W 

80°47' W 

81°03' W 

97°31' W 

97°18' W 

82°13' W 

95°05' W 

86°05' W 

81°42' W 

81°42' W 

93°13' W 

80°39' W 

80°25' W 

88°15' W 

76°53' W 

89°50' W 

72°52' W 

74°25' W 

70°15' W 

78°29' W 

80°16' W 

97°23' W 

93°50' W 

78°00' W 

77°29' W 

84°20' W 

82°24' W 

77°00' W 

78°26' W 

 

1

The criterion for selection is that the radar site is located within approximately 124 n mi (legacy maximum velocity 

range) of the coastline. 
7-3 

Table 7-1 (continued). Participating Radar Stations 

National Weather Service Radars: U.S. Southwest 

Location Radar Type Latitude Longitude 

Phoenix, AZ 

San Diego, CA 

Tucson, AZ 

Yuma, AZ 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D

33°17' N 

33°49' N 

31°57' N 

32°40' N

111°40' W 

117°38' W 

110°54' W 

114°37' W

FAA Radars 

Molokai, HI 

Kohala, HI 

San Juan, PR 

South Hawaii, HI 

South Kauai, HI 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

21°08'N 

20°06'N 

18°07'N 

19°06'N 

21°54'N 

157°11' W 

155°45' W 

66°05' W 

155°34' W 

159°33' W 

Department of Defense Radars 

Andersen AFB, Guam 

Columbus AFB, MS 

Dover AFB, DE 

Eglin AFB, FL 

Fort Hood, TX 

Fort Polk, LA 

Fort Rucker, AL 

Maxwell AFB, AL 

Moody AFB, GA 

Robins AFB, GA 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

WSR-88D 

13°27'N 

33°54'N 

38°50'N 

30°34'N 

30°43'N 

31°09'N 

31°28'N 

32°32'N 

30°33'N 

32°40'N 

144°49' E 

88°20' W 

75°26' W 

85°55' W 

97°23' W 

92°58' W 

85°28' W 

85°47' W 

83°00' W 

83°21' W 

7.3.2. Central Region Report. The following fix definitions and criteria are used in 

reporting tropical cyclone radar observations: 

 If the central region of a storm is defined by an identifiable circular, or nearly 

circular, wall cloud with an echo-free center, the fix (the geometric center) is 

reported as an "EYE". 

 If the central region is recognizable, but not well-defined by a wall cloud (as 

in the case of a tropical storm), it is reported as a “CENTER." 

 When the eye or center is only occasionally recognizable or some other 

central region uncertainty exists, the eye or center is reported as "PSBL 

EYE" or "PSBL CENTER."

 Remarks stating the degree of confidence will be included and will be 

classified as either "good," "fair," or "poor." If an eye is present, a "good" fix 

is reported when the eye is symmetrical--virtually surrounded by wall cloud; 

a "poor" fix is reported when the eye is asymmetrical--less than 50 percent 

surrounded by wall cloud; a "fair" fix is reported to express a degree of 

confidence between "good" and "poor." Note that a partial eyewall may be 

the result of excessive range from the radar, or represent the true structure of 

the system. Doppler velocities will, in general, increase confidence in the 

center position and, if available, should always be examined prior to 

establishing a fix. 
7-4 

 7.3.3. Transmission of Radar Reports. When the tropical cyclone is within 200 n mi 

of a WSR-88D, and the center fix is considered reliable, the appropriate tropical cyclone warning 

center (TPC/NHC or CPHC) may issue a tropical cyclone position estimate (AWIPS category 

TCE) between 2-hourly intermediate advisories. Note that although the issuance of this product 

depends upon the quality of the radar fix, other data sources such as aircraft reconnaissance may 

be blended with the radar estimate to obtain a position. Thus, a radar position based on a 

particular radar may appear to disagree with the TCE position, but has in fact been taken into 

consideration. 

 In the case of communications failure, and the event that TPC/NHC cannot obtain the 

necessary radar data, the local NWS Weather Forecast Office may be called upon to estimate the 

radar position and render qualitative assessment of the circulation. 

 Other radar facilities not having weather transmission capability but wishing to provide 

information deemed important, should call the nearest NWS Weather Forecast Office or the 

TPC/NHC. 
8-1 

CHAPTER 8 

NATIONAL DATA BUOY CAPABILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

8.1. General.

8.1.1. Automated Reporting Stations. The National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) 

maintains automated reporting stations in the coastal and deep ocean areas of the Gulf of 

Mexico, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and in the Great Lakes. These data acquisition systems 

collect real-time meteorological and oceanographic measurements for operational and research 

purposes. Moored buoys are deployed in the Southern Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean and the 

Atlantic Ocean east of the Lesser Antilles for the primary purpose of supporting National 

Hurricane Center operations. NDBC also quality controls and releases meteorological data from 

the National Ocean Service Water Level Observing Network and from moorings and coastal 

stations operated by cooperating Regional Ocean Observing Systems. The NDBC website at 

www.ndbc.noaa.gov provides locations, latest operating status, and site-specific information for 

NDBC stations and provides links to details on partner organization stations. Specific questions 

may be addressed to NDBC Data Management and Communications Branch, Stennis Space 

Center, Mississippi 39529-6000, phone 228-688-2835. 

8.1.2. Data Acquisition. Moored buoy and C-MAN stations routinely acquire, store, 

and transmit data every hour; a few selected stations report more frequently. Data obtained 

operationally include sea level pressure, wind speed and direction, peak wind, and air 

temperature. Sea surface temperature and wave spectra data are measured by all moored buoys 

and a limited number of C-MAN stations. Relative humidity is measured at several stations. 

Ocean currents and salinity are measured at a few coastal stations. 

 NDBC acquires, encodes, and distributes data from partner organizations via 

NWS dissemination systems. Data from partner organizations pass through NDBC data quality 

control procedures prior to NWS dissemination. Frequency and timeliness of transmissions from 

these stations varies by organization. 

8.1.3. Drifting Buoys. 

 8.1.3.1. NDBC. NDBC is capable of acquiring, preparing, and deploying drifting 

buoys; however, an operational drifting buoy requirement has not been identified or funded. 

 8.1.3.2. Navy. Since 1998, the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) has 

deployed meteorological drifting buoys to report surface meteorological and oceanographic 

measurements, for operational purposes, as tropical systems move through data sparse regions 

tracking toward the U.S. East Coast. Additionally, Navy drifting buoys have been deployed in 

the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The drifting buoy measurements, which are 

available to tropical forecasters, provide invaluable input for defining tropical storm movement 

and intensity, improve forecast model initialization, and give tropical forecasters a much better 

sense of storm characteristics and track as they approach the fleet concentration areas of 

Jacksonville, FL, and Norfolk, VA. Drifting buoys typically have a life span of 1 to 2 years, and 
8-2 

the data are available through the NAVOCEANO homepage and through standard World 

Meteorological Organization (WMO) data sources. 

 NAVOCEANO acquires, prepares, and deploys drifting meteorological buoys based on 

operational requirements identified by Commander-in-Chief, Atlantic Fleet (CINCLANTFLT). 

Currently, CINCLANTFLT has identified the Navy’s drifting buoy support as a standing 

requirement to support fleet safety, assist in fleet sortie decisions, and enhance tropical weather 

preparedness. 

8.2. Requests for Drifting Buoy Deployment. Drifting buoy deployments should be 

coordinated through the Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA). Deployments will be requested through the Office of the Federal 

Coordinator for Meteorology (OFCM) to HQ Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC). 

Deployments in advance of a U.S. land-threatening hurricane require a 36- to 48-hour 

notification.

8.2.1. CARCAH. CARCAH will issue, through the Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day 

(TCPOD), an alert or outlook for drifting buoy deployment 48 hours before the planned 

deployment. Hard tasking for the deployment will be issued via the TCPOD 16 hours, plus 

flying time to the deployment location, before the event. 

8.2.2. Deployment of Buoys. DOC may request the deployment of a drifting buoy and 

subsurface float array with up to 40 elements at a distance of 200 to 400 nm from the storm 

center, depending on the dynamics of the storm system. DOC will ensure the buoys and 

mission-related DOC personnel are delivered to AFRC. The specific DOC request for placement 

of the buoys will depend on several factors, including: 

 Characteristics of the storm, including size, intensity, and velocity. 

 Storm position relative to the coast and population centers. 

 Availability of aircraft and Loadmasters (LM) certified for buoy deployment. 

8.2.3. Deployment Position. The final deployment position will be provided before the 

flight crew briefing. An example of a possible buoy and float deployment pattern from the 

recent CLBAST Experiment is shown in Figure 8-1. 

8.3. Communications. Moored buoy and C-MAN data are transmitted via NOAA 

Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) to the National Environmental 

Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) or via the Iridium satellite communication 

system and then are relayed to the NWS Telecommunications Gateway (NWSTG) for processing 

and dissemination. Data from partner organizations acquired by NDBC are relayed to the 

NWSTG for processing and dissemination. Moored buoy observations are formatted into the 

World Meteorological Organization (WMO) FM13 SHIP code. C-MAN and other partner 

organization coastal station data are formatted into C-MAN code, which is very similar to the 

WMO FM12 SYNOP code. Drifting buoys transmit data via NOAA’s Polar Orbiting 

Environmental Satellites (POES) to the U.S. Argos Global Processing Center, Largo, MD. 
8-3 

Service Argos processes and formats the data into WMO FM18 BUOY code. The messages are 

then routed to the NWSTG for distribution. The formats for WMO encoded messages may be 

found in the WMO Manual on Codes Volume One, WMO-No. 306.

Figure 8-1. Example Buoy and Float Deployment Pattern

9-1 

CHAPTER 9 

MARINE WEATHER BROADCASTS

9.1. General. The National Weather Service and the Department of Homeland Security’s 

United States Coast Guard (USCG) broadcast forecast products that include information on 

tropical cyclones issued by the National Hurricane Center and the Central Pacific Hurricane 

Center. The broadcast of these products supports the U.S. participation in the Global Maritime 

Distress and Safety System, which provides the communications support to the International 

Maritime Organization's (IMO) global search and rescue plan. 

9.2. Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). The goals of GMDSS are to 

provide more effective and efficient emergency and safety communications, and to disseminate 

maritime safety information to all ships on the world's oceans regardless of location or 

atmospheric conditions. These goals are defined in the International Convention for the Safety 

of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended. GMDSS is based upon a combination of satellite and 

terrestrial radio services and has changed international distress communications from being 

primarily ship-to-ship based to ship-to-shore (rescue coordination center) based. GMDSS 

provides for automatic distress alerting and locating, and requires ships to receive broadcasts of 

maritime safety information which could prevent a distress from happening in the first place. 

The NWS participates directly in the GMDSS by preparing weather forecasts and warnings for 

broadcast via two primary GMDSS systems--NAVTEX and Inmarsat-C SafetyNET. 

9.2.1. NAVTEX. NAVTEX is an international, automated system for instantly 

distributing maritime navigational warnings, weather forecasts and warnings, search and rescue 

notices, and similar information to ships. It has been designated by the IMO as the primary 

means for transmitting coastal urgent marine safety information to ships worldwide. NAVTEX 

is broadcast from the 12 USCG stations. Coverage is reasonably continuous along the east, west, 

and Gulf coasts of the United States, as well as the area around Kodiak, Alaska, Guam, and 

Puerto Rico. Typical NAVTEX transmissions range from 200-400 nm. 

9.2.2. SafetyNET. Satellite systems operated by Inmarsat Ltd. are an important element 

of the GMDSS. Inmarsat-C provides ship/shore, shore/ship, and ship/ship store-and-forward 

data and telex messaging; the capability for sending preformatted messages to a rescue 

coordination center; and the SafetyNET service. The Inmarsat-C SafetyNET service is a 

satellite-based worldwide maritime safety information broadcast service of high seas weather 

warnings, navigational warnings, radionavigation warnings, ice reports and warnings generated 

by USCG-conducted International Ice Patrol, and other information not provided by NAVTEX. 

9.3. Coastal Maritime Safety Broadcasts. In addition to NAVTEX, the USCG and other 

government agencies broadcast maritime safety information, using a variety of different radio 

systems to ensure coverage of different ocean areas for which the United States has 

responsibility and to ensure all ships of every size and nationality can receive this vital safety 

information. 
9-2 

9.3.1. VHF Marine Radio. The USCG broadcasts nearshore and storm warnings of 

interest to the mariner on VHF channel 22A (157.1 MHZ) following an initial call on the 

distress, safety, and calling channel 16 (156.8 MHZ). Broadcasts are made from over 200 sites, 

covering the coastal areas of the U.S., including the Great Lakes, major inland waterways, 

Puerto Rico, Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam. All ships in U.S. waters over 20 meters in length are 

required to monitor VHF channel 16 and must have radios capable of tuning to the VHF simplex 

channel 22A. Typical coverage is 25 nm offshore. 

9.3.2. Medium Frequency Radiotelephone (Voice). The USCG broadcasts offshore 

forecasts and storm warnings of interest to mariners on 2670 kHz, after first being announced on 

the distress, safety, and calling frequency 2182 kHz. 

9.3.3. NOAA Weather Radio. The NOAA Weather Radio network continually 

broadcasts coastal and marine forecasts on frequencies near 162 MHZ. Recorded voice 

broadcasts have largely been supplanted by a synthesized voice. The network provides nearcontinuous coverage of the coastal U.S., Great Lakes, Hawaii, Guam, Commonwealth of the 

Northern Mariana Islands, and the populated Alaska coastline. Typical coverage is 25 nm 

offshore. 

9.4. High Seas Broadcasts. NWS high seas weather forecasts and warnings are also 

available on the following high frequency (HF) broadcasts. 

9.4.1. HF Radiotelephone (Voice). Weather forecasts and warnings for high seas and 

offshore areas are broadcast over scheduled HF single sideband (SSB) radiotelephone channels 

from USCG communications stations using a very distinctive and recognizable computersynthesized voice. 

9.4.2. HF Radiofacsimile. The USCG broadcasts NWS high seas weather maps from 

five communications stations--Boston, MA (NMF); Point Reyes, CA (NMC); New Orleans, LA 

(NMG), Honolulu, HI (KVM-70) (a DOD station); and Kodiak, AK (NOJ). Limited satellite 

imagery, sea surface temperature maps, and text forecasts are also available. 

9.4.3. HF Radiotelex (HF SITOR). High seas forecasts in text format, recognized by 

the GMDSS, are broadcast over scheduled GMDSS HF narrow-band direct printing channels 

from USCG communications stations. Limited offshore forecasts are also available. 

9.4.4. WWV, WWVH HF Voice (Time Tick). Atlantic high seas warnings are 

broadcast at 7 and 8 minutes past the hour over WWV (Boulder, CO) on the following HF 

frequencies: 2.5, 5, 10, 15, and 20 MHZ; Pacific high seas warnings are broadcast at 9 minutes 

past the hour. Pacific high seas warnings are broadcast from 48-51 minutes past the hour over 

WWVH (Honolulu, HI) at 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 MHZ. These are the National Institute of Standards 

and Technology (NIST) standard time/frequency broadcasts. 
9-3 

9.5. Additional Information. Further information concerning these and other marine 

broadcasts, including schedules, frequencies, and links to products can be found at: 

 www.nws.noaa.gov/om/marine/home.htm

 www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/

In addition, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), Publication 117, 

Radionavigational Aids (http://www.nga.mil/portal/site/maritime), contains detailed information 

on maritime safety information broadcasts within the U.S. and worldwide. 

10-1 

CHAPTER 10 

PUBLICITY

10.1. News Media Releases. News media releases, other than warnings and advisories, for the 

purpose of informing the public of the operational and research activities of the Departments of 

Commerce, Defense, and Transportation should reflect the joint effort of these agencies by 

giving due credit to the participation of other agencies. 

10.2. Distribution. Copies of these releases should be forwarded to the following agencies: 

 NOAA Office of Public Affairs 

Herbert C. Hoover Building 

14th and Constitution Avenue, N.W. 

Washington, DC 20230 

 Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command 

1100 Balch Boulevard 

Stennis Space Center, MS 39522-3001 

 HQ Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC/PA) 

Robins AFB, GA 31093 

 Joint Staff Weather Officer 

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (J3/DDGO-ROD) 

Pentagon Room 2D-921G 

Washington, DC 20318-3000 

 Federal Aviation Administration (APA-310) 

800 Independence Avenue, S.W. 

Washington, DC 20591 

 Director, NOAA Aircraft Operations Center 

P.O. Box 6829 

MacDill AFB, FL 33608-0829 

 Federal Coordinator for Meteorology 

Suite 1500, 8455 Colesville Road 

Silver Spring, MD 20910 

A-1 

APPENDIX A

LOCAL NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE (NWS) OFFICE PRODUCTS

A.1. General. This appendix briefly describes some of the products issued by local National 

Weather Service (NWS) offices which support the tropical cyclone forecast and warning 

program. Additional details of all the products can be found in National Weather Service 

Instruction 10-601, located at http://www.weather.gov/directives. 

A.2. Products. 

 A.2.1. Hurricane/Typhoon Local Statements (HLS). WFOs with coastal county 

responsibilities and selected inland WFOs will issue these products which are very specific and 

designed to inform media, local decision makers, and the public on present and anticipated storm 

effects in their county warning area (CWA) and adjacent coastal waters. HLSs will add 

localized details to tropical cyclone center’s advisory releases and should not conflict with or 

repeat advisory information not directly applicable to the local office’s CWA. 

Coastal WFOs are defined as those having at least one county with significant tidal influences. 

Those are: 

EASTERN REGION SOUTHERN 

REGION WESTERN REGION PACIFIC REGION 

Caribou, ME 

Portland, ME 

Boston, MA 

New York City, NY 

Philadelphia, PA 

Baltimore, MD/ 

 Washington, DC 

Wakefield, VA 

Newport/ 

 Morehead City, 

NC 

Wilmington, NC 

Charleston, SC 

Brownsville, TX 

Corpus Christi, TX 

Houston/Galveston, 

TX 

Lake Charles, LA 

New Orleans, LA 

Mobile, AL 

Tallahassee, FL 

Tampa Bay, FL 

Miami, FL 

Key West, FL 

Melbourne, FL 

Jacksonville, FL 

San Juan, PR 

San Diego, CA 

Los Angeles/ 

 Oxnard, CA 

Honolulu, HI 

Guam 

WSO Pago Pago, 

 American Samoa 

 A.2.2. Extreme Wind Warning (EWW). Short duration warnings are issued by WFOs 

to protect lives and property. WFO forecasters issue short duration EWW products to provide 

the public with advance notice of the onset of extreme tropical cyclone winds, usually associated 

with the eyewall of a major (category 3 or higher) tropical cyclone. Extreme Wind Warnings 

inform the public of the need to take immediate shelter in an interior portion of a well-built 

structure due to the onset of extreme tropical cyclone winds. 
A-2 

 A.2.3. Post-Tropical Cyclone Reports (PSH). The PSH is the primary WFO post 

tropical cyclone product issued to the public to report and document local tropical cyclone 

impacts. The PSH product is intended to provide the NHC, NWS Headquarters, the media, the 

public, and emergency management officials with a record of peak tropical cyclone conditions. 

This data is then used to formulate other post-event reports, news articles and historical records. 
B-1 

APPENDIX B 

DEFINING POINTS FOR TROPICAL CYCLONE WATCHES/WARNINGS 

The coastal areas placed under tropical storm and hurricane/typhoon watches and warnings are 

described through the use of "breakpoints" or geographical positions. The primary breakpoints 

are defined below. 

Mexico

La Pesca, MX 23.76°N 97.78°W 

Rio San Fernando, MX 25.00°N 97.60°W

Lake Charles, LA

High Island, TX 29.54°N 94.39°W 

Sabine Pass, TX 29.69°N 93.84°W 

Cameron, LA 29.78°N 93.30°W 

Intracoastal City, LA 29.62°N 92.04°W 

Morgan City, LA 29.48°N 91.29°W

Brownsville, TX

Mouth of the Rio 

 Grand River 25.96°N 97.15°W 

Port Mansfield, TX 26.60°N 97.29°W 

Baffin Bay, TX 27.29°N 97.37°W

New Orleans, LA

Morgan City, LA 29.48°N 91.29°W 

Lake Maurepas, LA 30.25°N 90.50°W 

Grand Isle, LA 29.25°N 89.96°W 

Mouth of Mississippi 

 River, LA 29.12°N 89.10°W 

Mouth of Pearl 

 River, LA 30.15°N 89.60°W 

Lake Maurepas, LA 30.25°N 90.50°W 

Pascagoula, MS 30.35°N 88.55°W 

MS/AL Border 30.40°N 88.40°W

Corpus Christi, TX

Baffin Bay, TX 27.29°N 97.37°W 

North Entrance of the 

 Padre Island 

 National Seashore 27.47°N 97.29°W 

Port Aransas, TX 27.83°N 97.07°W 

Port O’Connor, TX 28.39°N 96.41°W

Mobile, AL

MS/AL Border 30.40°N 88.40°W 

AL/FL Border 30.27°N 87.55°W 

Destin, FL 30.39°N 86.50°W

Houston, TX

Port O’Connor, TX 28.39°N 96.41°W 

Matagorda, TX 28.63°N 95.93°W 

Sargent, TX 28.77°N 95.60°W 

Freeport, TX 28.93°N 95.33°W 

San Luis Pass, TX 29.07°N 95.13°W 

Point Bolivar, TX 29.38°N 94.76°W 

High Island, TX 29.54°N 94.39°W

Tallahassee, FL

Destin, FL 30.39°N 86.50°W 

Walton/Bay 

 County Line, FL 30.28°N 85.98°W 

Panama City, FL 30.12°N 85.70°W 

Mexico Beach, FL 29.93°N 85.39°W 

Indian Pass, FL 29.68°N 85.27°W 

Apalachicola, FL 29.73°N 84.99°W 

Ochlockonee River, FL 29.96°N 84.38°W 

St. Marks, FL 30.10°N 84.20°W 

Aucilla River, FL 30.04°N 83.92°W 

Keaton Beach, FL 29.82°N 83.59°W 

Steinhatchee River, FL 29.67°N 83.40°W 

Suwanee River, FL 29.30°N 83.17°W
B-2 

Tampa Bay, FL

Suwanee River, FL 29.30°N 83.17°W 

Yankeetown, FL 29.03°N 82.75°W 

Chassahowitzka, FL 28.70°N 82.65°W 

Aripeka, FL 28.43°N 82.66°W 

Anclote Key, FL 28.18°N 82.85°W 

Tarpon Springs, FL 28.15°N 82.79°W 

Anna Maria Island, FL 27.53°N 82.73°W 

Middle of Longboat 

 Key, FL 27.39°N 82.64°W 

Englewood, FL 26.94°N 82.37°W 

Boca Grande, FL 26.75°N 82.26°W 

Bonita Beach, FL 26.32°N 81.84°W

Melbourne, FL

Jupiter Inlet, FL 26.95°N 80.07°W 

Stuart, FL 27.21°N 80.18°W 

Fort Pierce, FL 27.46°N 80.28°W 

Vero Beach, FL 27.65°N 80.35°W 

Sebastian Inlet, FL 27.83°N 80.43°W 

Cocoa Beach, FL 28.32°N 80.61°W 

Volusia/Brevard 

 County Line, FL 28.79°N 80.73°W 

New Smyrna Beach, FL 29.03°N 80.89°W 

Flagler Beach, FL 29.47°N 81.12°W 

Miami, FL (Gulf)

Bonita Beach, FL 26.33°N 81.84°W 

Chokoloskee, FL 25.78°N 81.38°W 

East Cape Sable, FL 25.12°N 81.08°W 

Flamingo, FL 25.14°N 80.93°W

Jacksonville, FL

Flagler Beach, FL 29.47°N 81.12°W 

St. Augustine, FL 29.88°N 81.27°W 

Fernandina Beach, FL 30.66°N 81.44°W 

Altamaha Sound, GA 31.29°N 81.29°W

Key West, FL (Gulf)

Flamingo, FL 25.14°N 80.93°W 

Dry Tortugas, FL 24.66°N 82.86°W 

Key West, FL 24.55°N 81.81°W 

Seven Mile Bridge, FL 24.70°N 81.15°W 

Craig Key, FL 24.83°N 80.77°W 

Card Sound Bridge, FL 25.29°N 80.37°W 

Ocean Reef, FL 25.33°N 80.26°W

Charleston, SC

Altamaha Sound, GA 31.29°N 81.29°W 

Savannah River, GA 32.03°N 80.86°W 

Edisto Beach, SC 32.49°N 80.32°W 

South Santee River, SC 33.12°N 79.27°W

Miami, FL (Atlantic)

Ocean Reef, FL 25.33°N 80.26°W 

Golden Beach, FL 25.97°N 80.12°W 

Hallandale Beach, FL 25.99°N 80.12°W 

Deerfield Beach, FL 26.32°N 80.07°W 

Boca Raton, FL 26.36°N 80.07°W 

Jupiter Inlet, FL 26.95°N 80.07°W

Wilmington, NC

South Santee River, SC 33.12°N 79.27°W 

Murrells Inlet, SC 33.56°N 79.01°W 

Little River Inlet, SC 33.85°N 78.55°W 

Cape Fear, NC 33.84°N 77.96°W 

Surf City, NC 34.44°N 77.52°W
B-3 

Morehead City, NC

Surf City, NC 34.44°N 77.52°W 

New River Inlet, NC 34.53°N 77.34°W 

Bogue Inlet, NC 34.64°N 77.11°W 

Cape Lookout, NC 34.60°N 76.53°W 

Ocracoke Inlet, NC 35.06°N 76.00°W 

Cape Hatteras, NC 35.22°N 75.53°W 

Oregon Inlet, NC 35.77°N 75.53°W 

(The inclusion of Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds 

should be on a case-by-case basis). 

5 miles north of 

Duck, NC 36.23°N 75.77°W

Mt. Holly, NJ

Cape Henlopen, DE 38.80°N 75.09°W 

Cape May, NJ 38.94°N 74.90°W 

Great Egg Inlet, NJ 39.29°N 74.54°W 

Little Egg Inlet, NJ 39.49°N 74.31°W 

Manasquan Inlet, NJ 40.10°N 74.03°W 

Delaware Bay North/ 

 South of Slaughter 

 Beach, DE to 38.91°N 75.30°W 

Sandy Hook, NJ 40.46°N 74.00°W

Wakefield, VA

5 miles north of 

 Duck, NC 36.23°N 75.77°W

NC/VA State Line 36.55°N 75.87°W 

Cape Charles Light, VA 37.12°N 75.90°W 

Parramore Island, VA 37.52°N 75.64°W 

Chincoteague, VA 37.93°N 75.32°W 

Chesapeake Bay, New 

 Point Comfort, VA 37.30°N 76.28°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Windmill Point, VA 37.61°N 76.28°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Smith Point, VA 37.89°N 76.24°W

New York City, NY

Sandy Hook, NJ 40.46°N 74.00°W 

Fire Island Inlet, LI, NY 40.63°N 73.31°W 

Moriches Inlet, LI, NY 40.77°N 72.75°W 

Montauk Point, LI, NY 41.07°N 71.86°W 

Port Jefferson Harbor, 

 LI, NY 40.96°N 73.08°W 

New Haven, CT 41.30°N 72.91°W 

Watch Hill, RI 41.31°N 71.86°W

Sterling, VA

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Smith Point, VA 37.89°N 76.24°W 

Tidal Potomac, 

 Cobb Island, MD 38.26°N 76.84°W 

Tidal Potomac, 

 Indian Head, MD 38.61°N 77.15°W 

Tidal Potomac, 

 Key Bridge, MD 38.89°N 77.07°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Drum Point, MD 39.32°N 76.42°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 North Beach, MD 38.70°N 76.53°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Sandy Point, MD 39.02°N 76.40°W 

Chesapeake Bay, 

 Pooles Island, MD 39.29°N 76.27°W

Boston, MA

Block Island, RI 41.16°N 71.56°W 

Martha’s 

 Vineyard, MA 41.38°N 70.63°W 

Nantucket, MA 41.27°N 70.04°W 

(The inclusion of the above points should be on a 

case-by-case basis).

Watch Hill, RI 41.31°N 71.86°W 

Point Judith, RI 41.35°N 71.49°W 

Westport, MA 41.50°N 71.11°W 

Woods Hole, MA 41.52°N 70.68°W 

Chatham, MA 41.67°N 69.95°W 

Sagamore Beach, MA 41.80°N 70.53°W 

Plymouth, MA 41.98°N 70.65°W 

Provincetown, MA 42.06°N 70.25°W 

Hull, MA 42.30°N 70.91°W 

Gloucester, MA 42.58°N 70.66°W 

Merrimack River, MA 42.84°N 70.82°W
B-4 

Portland, ME

Merrimack River, MA 42.84°N 70.82°W 

Portsmouth, NH 43.05°N 70.72°W 

Cape Elizabeth, ME 43.56°N 70.19°W 

Port Clyde, ME 43.92°N 69.25°W 

Stonington, ME 44.16°N 68.64°W

Caribou, ME

Stonington, ME 44.16°N 68.64°W 

Bar Harbor, ME 44.39°N 68.20°W 

Eastport, ME 44.92°N 67.00°W 

California Breakpoints 

San Diego, CA

Mouth of the Tijuana 

 River, CA 32.53°N 117.12°W 

San Mateo Point, CA 33.38°N 117.60°W 

Mouth of San Gabriel 

 River, CA 33.75°N 118.11°W

Los Angeles/Oxnard, CA

Mouth of San Gabriel 

 River, CA 33.75°N 118.11°W 

Point Mugu, CA 34.11°N 119.12°W 

Point Conception, CA 34.45°N 120.45°W

Central Pacific Hurricane Center Breakpoints 

Honolulu, HI 

Northwest Hawaiian 

 Islands Nihoa 23.05°N 161.92°W 

French Frigate Shoals 23.86°N 166.27°W 

Maro Reef 25.33°N 170.50°W 

Lisianski 26.08°N 174.00°W 

Pearl and Hermes Atoll 27.83°N 175.83°W 

Midway 28.02°N 177.37°W 

Kure Atoll 28.42°N 178.33°W

For graphical representations of the breakpoints, see 

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/breakpoints_graphics.shtml. 
C-1 

APPENDIX C

JOINT TYPHOON WARNING CENTER (JTWC) BULLETINS

Below are the abbreviated communications headers and titles for the products for which JTWC is 

responsible. A brief description of each product, to include scheduled transmission times, is 

available http://metocph.nmci.navy.mil/jtwc/menu/jtwc_dis.html. 

ABIO 10 PGTW Significant Weather Advisory, Indian Ocean 

ABPW 10 PGTW Significant Weather Advisory, Western Pacific Ocean 

WTPN 21-26 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, Northwest Pacific Ocean 

WTPN 31-36 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Warning, Northwest Pacific Ocean 

WDPN 31-36 PGTW Prognostic Reasoning Bulletin, Northwest Pacific Ocean 

WTIO 21-25 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, North Indian Ocean 

WTIO 31-35 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Warning, North Indian Ocean 

WTPS 21-25 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, Southwest Pacific Ocean 

WTPS 31-35 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Warning, Southwest Pacific Ocean 

WTXS 21-26 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, South Indian Ocean 

WTXS 31-36 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Warning, South Indian Ocean 

WTPN 21-25 PHNC Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, Northeast Pacific Ocean 

WTPN 31-35 PHNC Tropical Cyclone Warning, Northeast Pacific Ocean 

FKPN 31-35 PHNC Prognostic Reasoning Bulletin, Northeast Pacific Ocean 

WTPS 21-25 PHNC Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert, Southeast Pacific Ocean 

WTPS 31-35 PHNC Tropical Cyclone Warning, Southeast Pacific Ocean 

TPPN 10-19 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity, Northwest Pacific Ocean 

TPIO 10-19 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity, North Indian Ocean 

TPPS 10-19 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity, Southwest Pacific Ocean 

TPXS 10-19 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity, Southern Indian Ocean 

TPPZ 01-05 PGTW Tropical Cyclone Position and Intensity, Central North Pacific 

Ocean

D-1 

APPENDIX D

FORMAT FOR NHOP/NWSOP FLIGHT INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL 

AND DOMESTIC NOTAM ISSUANCE 

Flight information shall be sent to the NOTAM office via facsimile for dissemination as an 

International and Domestic NOTAM in the following format (Note: The request is made for a 

domestic NOTAM which will then automatically makes its way into the international NOTAM 

system):

Header 

Request a Domestic NOTAM be Issued

A. Affected Center(s). This field will include all affected ARTCCs in 3-letter identifier 

format; e.g., ZNY, ZOA, ZAN. Synoptic track flights will probably utilize more than one 

ARTCC, and any adjacent ARTCC should be included when the flight track is within 100 

miles of the adjacent center’s airspace. Flights that are flying in the storm environment 

will utilize the ARTCC whose airspace is mostly affected. 

B. Start Time (YYMMDDZZZZ). For example, 0006011600. This time would correspond 

to the entry time on a reconnaissance track or time at the storm fix latitude/longitude. 

C. Ending Time (YYMMDDZZZZ). This would be the completion time of reconnaissance 

track or the time exiting the storm environment. 

E.* Text. This field is free form and should include the following information: route of 

flight for the mission portion (latitude/longitude, fixes, airways), type of activity (laser, 

dropsonde, etc.), frequency/location of deployment, broadcast frequencies, any other 

pertinent information that may concern other flights. Include a unit/agency phone 

number and point of contact for possible questions. 

F. Lower Altitude (during mission). Use “Surface” since the dropsonde is the “reason” for 

the NOTAM as much or more so than the aircraft altitude. 

G. Upper Altitude (during mission). For example, FL450. 

If only one altitude is to be used, then F and G may be combined. If altitude is going to 

vary throughout the mission, utilize “see text” and the information can be inserted there 

and the altitudes may be explained in field E. 

* Note that there is no paragraph “D”. It is reserved for FAA use.

NOTES: 

1. Only ICAO approved contractions may be used. 

2. Using this format will help ensure timely and accurate information dissemination. 

E-1 

APPENDIX E

SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE

Saffir/Simpson Hurricane Scale (SSHS). The SSHS is a scale ranging from one to five based on 

the hurricane's present intensity. This scale may be used in public hurricane releases although 

the SSHS may not be applicable for all geographical areas (e.g., Hawaii and Guam). Additional 

details regarding the SSHS can be found at: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshs.shtml. 

F-1 

APPENDIX F

OFFICIAL INTERAGENCY AGREEMENTS

 The following enclosure is the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Air 

Force Reserve Command (AFRC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

(NOAA), October 12, 2000. The purpose of this agreement is to establish policies, principles, 

and procedures under which the AFRC and NOAA provide aircraft weather reconnaissance and 

surveillance in support of NOAA’s tropical cyclone forecast, warning, and research missions. 





G-1 

APPENDIX G

RECCO, HDOB, AND TEMP DROP 

CODES, TABLES, AND REGULATIONS 
G-2 

Figure G-1. Reconnaissance Code Recording Form 
G-3 

Table G-1. Reconnaissance Code Tables 

TABLE 1 XXX 

222 Sec One Observation without radar 

capability 

555 Sec Three (intermediate) 

observation with or without radar 

capability 

777 Sec One Observation with radar 

capability 

TABLE 2 id 

0 No dew point capability/acft below 

10,000 meters 

1 No dew point capability/acft at or 

above 10,000 meters 

2 No dew point capability/acft below 

10,000 meters and flight lvl temp -

50°C or colder 

3 No dew point capability/acft at or 

above 10,000 meters and flight lvl 

temp -50°C or colder 

4 Dew point capability/acft below 

10,000 meters 

5 Dew point capability/acft at or above 

10,000 meters 

6 Dew point capability/acft below 

10,000 meters and flight lvl temp -

50°C or colder 

7 Dew point capability/acft at or above 

10,000 meters and flight lvl temp -

50°C or colder 

TABLE 3 Q 

0 0° -90° W Northern 

1 90° W - 180° Northern 

2 180° - 90° E Northern 

3 90° - 0° E Northern 

4 Not Used 

5 0° - 90° W Southern 

6 90° W - 180° Southern 

7 180° - 90° E Southern 

8 90° - 0° E Southern 

TABLE 4 B 

0 None 

1 Light turbulence 

2 Moderate turbulence in clear air, 

infrequent 

3 Moderate turbulence in clear air, 

frequent 

4 Moderate turbulence in cloud, 

infrequent 

5 Moderate turbulence in cloud, 

frequent 

6 Severe Turbulence in clear air, 

infrequent 

7 Severe Turbulence in clear air, 

frequent 

8 Severe Turbulence in cloud, 

infrequent 

9 Severe Turbulence in cloud, frequent 

TABLE 5 fc 

0 In the clear 

8 In and out of clouds 

9 In clouds all the time (continuous 

IMC) 

/ Impossible to determine due to 

darkness or other cause

TABLE 6 dt 

0 Spot of Wind 

1 Average wind 

/ No wind reported 

TABLE 7 da 

0 Winds obtained using doppler radar or 

inertial systems 

1 Winds obtained using other navigation 

equipment and/or techniques 

/ Navigator unable to determine or wind 

not compatible 

TABLE 8 w 

0 Clear 

1 Scattered (trace to 4/8 cloud coverage) 

2 Broken (5/8 to 7/8 cloud coverage) 

3 Overcast/undercast 

4 Fog, thick dust or haze 

5 Drizzle 

6 Rain (continuous or intermittent precip 

- from stratiform clouds) 

7 Snow or rain and snow mixed 

8 Shower(s) (continuous or intermittent 

precip - from cumuliform clouds) 

9 Thunderstorm(s) 

/ Unknown for any cause, including 

darkness 

TABLE 9 j 

0 Sea level pressure in whole millibars 

 (thousands fig if any omitted) 

1 Altitude 200 mb surface in geopotential 

decameters (thousands fig if any 

omitted) 

2 Altitude 850 mb surface in geopotential 

meters (thousands fig omitted) 

3 Altitude 700 mb surface in geopotential 

meters (thousands fig omitted) 

4 Altitude 500 mb surface in geopotential 

decameters 

5 Altitude 400 mb surface in geopotential 

decameters 

6 Altitude 300 mb surface in geopotential 

decameters 

7 Altitude 250 mb surface in geopotential 

decameters (thousands fig if any 

omitted) 

8 D - Value in geopotential decameters; if 

negative 500 is added to HHH 

9 Altitude 925 mb surface in geopotential 

meters 

/ No absolute altitude available or 

geopotential data not within ± 30 

meters/4 mb accuracy requirements 

TABLE 10 Ns 

0 No additional cloud layers (place 

holder) 

1 1 okta or less, but not zero 

(1/8 or less sky covered) 

2 2 oktas (or 2/8 of sky covered) 

3 3 oktas (or 3/8 of sky covered) 

4 4 oktas (or 4/8 of sky covered) 

5 5 oktas (or 5/8 of sky covered) 

6 6 oktas (or 6/8 of sky covered) 

7 7 oktas or more but not 8 oktas 

8 8 oktas or sky completely covered 

9 Sky obscured (place holder)

TABLE 11 C 

0 Cirrus (Ci) 

1 Cirrocumulus (Cc) 

2 Cirrostratus (Cs) 

3 Altocumulus (Ac) 

4 Altostratus (As) 

5 Nimbostratus (Ns) 

6 Stratocumulus (Sc) 

7 Stratus (St) 

8 Cumulus (Cu) 

9 Cumulonimbus (Cb) 

/ Cloud type unknown due to darkness 

or other analogous phenomena 

TABLE 12 hshsHtHthihiHiHi 

00 Less than 100 

01 100 ft 

02 200 ft 

03 300 ft 

etc, etc 

49 4,900 ft 

50 5,000 ft 

51-55 Not used 

56 6,000 ft 

57 7,000 ft 

etc, etc 

79 29,000 ft 

80 30,000 ft 

81 35,000 ft 

82 40,000 ft 

etc, etc 

89 Greater than 70,000 ft 

// Unknown 

TABLE 13 dw 

0 No report 5 SW 

1 NE 6 W 

2 E 7 NW 

3 SE 8 N 

4 S 9 all directions 

TABLE 14 Ws 

0 No change 

1 Marked wind shift 

2 Beginning or ending or marked 

turbulence 

3 Marked temperature change (not with 

altitude) 

4 Precipitation begins or ends 

5 Change in cloud forms 

6 Fog or ice fog bank begins or ends 

7 Warm front 

8 Cold Front 

9 Front, type not specified 

TABLE 15 SbSeSs 

0 No report 

1 Previous position 

2 Present position 

3 30 nautical miles 

4 60 nautical miles 

5 90 nautical miles 

6 120 nautical miles 

7 150 nautical miles 

8 180 nautical miles 

9 More than 180 nautical miles 

/ Unknown (not used for Ss)
G-4 

Table G-1 (continued). Reconnaissance Code Tables

TABLE 16 wd 

0 No report 

1 Signs of a tropical cyclone 

2 Ugly threatening sky 

3 Duststorm or sandstorm 

4 Fog or ice fog 

5 Waterspout 

6 Cirrostratus shield or bank 

7 Altostratus or altocumulus shield or 

bank 

8 Line of heavy cumulus 

9 Cumulonimbus heads or 

thunderstorms 

TABLE 17 Ir 

7 Light 

8 Moderate 

9 Severe 

/ Unknown or contrails 

TABLE 18 It 

0 None 

1 Rime ice in clouds 

2 Clear ice in clouds 

3 Combination rime and clear ice in 

clouds 

4 Rime ice in precipitation 

5 Clear ice in precipitation 

6 Combination rime and clear ice in 

precip 

7 Frost (icing in clear air) 

8 Nonpersistent contrails (less than 

1/4 nautical miles long) 

9 Persistent contrails 

TABLE 19 Sr,Ew,El 

0 0NM 5 50NM 

1 10NM 6 60-80NM 

2 20NM 7 80-100NM 

3 30NM 8 100-150NM 

4 40NM 9 Greater than 150NM 

 / Unknown 

TABLE 20 Oe 

0 Circular 

1 NNE - SSW 

2 NE - SW 

3 ENE - WSW 

4 E - W 

5 ESE - WNW 

6 SE - NW 

7 SSE - NNW 

8 S - N 

/ Unknown 

TABLE 21 ce 

1 Scattered Area 

2 Solid Area 

3 Scattered Line 

4 Solid Line 

5 Scattered, all quadrants 

6 Solid, all quadrants 

/ Unknown 

TABLE 22 ie 

2 Weak 

5 Moderate 

8 Strong 

/ Unknown

TABLE 23 Vi 

1 Inflight visibility 0 to and including 1 nautical mile 

2 Inflight visibility greater than 1 and not exceeding 3 nautical miles 

3 Inflight visibility greater than 3 nautical miles 

RECCO SYMBOLIC FORM 

SECTION ONE (MANDATORY) 

9XXX9 GGggid YQLaLaLa LoLoLoBfc hahahadtda 

ddfff TTTdTdw /jHHH 

SECTION TWO (ADDITIONAL) 

1knNsNsNs ChshsHtHt ..... ..... 4ddff 

6WsSsWddw 7IrI

t

SbSe 7hihiHiHi 8drdrSrOe

8EwElcei

e 9Vi

TwTwTw

SECTION THREE (INTERMEDIATE) 

9XXX9 GGggid YQLaLaLa LoLoLoBfc hahahadtda

ddfff TTTdTdw /jHHH 
G-5 

Table G-2. Reconnaissance Code Regulations 

1. At the time of the observation the aircraft observing 

platform is considered to be located on the axis of a right 

vertical cylinder with a radius of 30 nautical miles 

bounded by the earth's surface and the top atmosphere. 

Present weather, cloud amount and type, turbulence, and 

other subjective elements are reported as occurring within 

the cylinder. Flight level winds, temperature, dew point, 

and geopotential values are sensed or computed and 

reported as occurring at the center of the observation 

circle. Radar echoes, significant weather changes, distant 

weather, and icing are phenomena that may also be 

observed/reported. Code groups identifying these 

phenomena may be reported as necessary to adequately 

describe met conditions observed. 

2. The intermediate observation (Section Three) is 

reported following Section One (or Section Two if 

appended to Section One) in the order that it was taken. 

3. Plain language remarks may be added as appropriate. 

These remarks follow the last encoded portion of the 

horizontal or vertical observation and will clearly convey 

the intended message. Vertical observations will not 

include meteorological remarks. These remarks must 

begin with a letter or word-e.g. "FL TEMP" vice "700 

MB FL TEMP." The last report plain language remarks 

are mandatory, i.e., “LAST REPORT. OBS 01 thru 08 to 

KNHC, OBS 09 and 10 to KBIX." 

4. The hundreds digit of longitude is omitted for 

longitudes from 100° to 180°. 

5. Describe conditions along the route of flight actually 

experienced at flight level by aircraft. 

6. TT, TdTd. When encoding negative temperatures, 50 

is added to the absolute value of the temperature with the 

hundreds figure, if any, being omitted. A temperature of -

52°C is encoded as 02, the distinction between -52°C and 

2°C being made from id. Missing or unknown 

temperatures are reported as //. When the dew point is 

colder than -49.4°C, Code TdTd as // and report the actual 

value as a plain language remark - e.g. "DEW POINT 

NEG 52°C". 

7. When two or more types of w co-exist, the type with 

the higher code figure will be reported. Code Figure 1, 2 

and 3 are reported based on the total cloud amount 

through a given altitude, above or below the aircraft, and 

when other figures are inappropriate. The summation 

principle applies only when two or more cloud types 

share a given altitude. 

8. When j is reported as a /, HHH is encoded as ///. 

9. If the number of cloud layers reported exceeds 3, kn in 

the first 1-group reports the total number of cloud layers. 

The second 1-group reports the additional number of 

layers being reported exclusive of those previously 

reported. In those cases where a cloud layer(s) is 

discernible, but a descriptive cloud picture of the 

observation circle is not possible, use appropriate remarks 

such as "Clouds Blo" or "As Blo" to indicate the presence 

of clouds. In such cases, coded entries are not made for 

group 9. The sequence in which cloud amounts are 

encoded depends upon type of cloud, cloud base, and 

vertical extent of the cloud. The cloud with the largest 

numerical value of cloud type code (C) is reported first, 

regardless of coverage, base, or vertical extent. Among 

clouds of the same cloud type code, sharing a common 

base, the cloud of greatest vertical extent is reported first. 

The summation principle is not used; each layer is treated 

as though no other clouds were present. The total amount 

of clouds through one altitude shared by several clouds 

will not exceed 8 oktas. Only use code figure 0 as a place 

holder when you can determine that no additional cloud 

layers exist. In case of undercast, overcast, etc., use code 

figure 9 as a placeholder. 

10. Due to limitations in the ability to distinguish sea 

state features representative of wind speeds above 130 

knots, surface wind speeds in excess of 130 knots will 

not be encoded. Wind speeds of 100 to 130 knots 

inclusive will be encoded by deleting the hundreds figure 

and adding 50 to dd. For wind speeds above 130 knots, 

dd is reported without adding 50 and ff is encoded as // 

with a plain language remark added, i.e., "SFC WIND 

ABOVE 130 KNOTS." 

11. Significant weather changes which have occurred 

since the last observation along the track are reported for 

Ws. 

12. When aircraft encounters icing in level flight, the 

height at which the icing occurred will be reported for hih

i

. The HiHi will be reported as //. 
G-6 

THE HDOB MESSAGE 

The HDOB message is used to transmit High-Density/High-Accuracy (HD/HA) meteorological 

data from hurricane reconnaissance aircraft. These are created automatically by the system 

software. Each message consists of a communications header line (Table G-3), a mission/ob 

identifier line (Table G-4), and 20 lines of HD/HA data (Table G-5). 

Within an HDOB message, the time interval (resolution) between individual HD/HA 

observations can be set by the operator to be 30, 60, or 120 seconds. However, regardless of the 

time resolution of the HD/HA data, the meteorological parameters in the HDOB message always 

represent 30-second averages along the flight track (except for certain peak values as noted in 

Table G-5). 

The nominal time of each HD/HA record is the midpoint of the 30-second averaging interval. 

This means that an HD/HA record at time t will include data measured at time t+15 seconds. For 

purposes of determining peak flight-level and SFMR winds, the encoding interval begins 15 

seconds after the nominal time of the last HD/HA record and ends 15 seconds after the nominal 

time of the record being encoded. 

A sample HDOB message is given below (message begins with URNT15...): 

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

01234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890 

----------------------------------------------------------------------- 

URNT15 KNHC 281426 

AF302 1712A KATRINA HDOB 41 20050928 

142030 2608N 08756W 7093 03047 9333 +192 +134 133083 089 080 999 00 

142100 2609N 08755W 7091 03054 9330 +166 +146 133106 115 103 999 00 

142130 2610N 08754W 7058 03040 9295 +134 +134 135121 124 111 999 00 

142200 2611N 08753W 7037 03060 9291 +124 +124 138129 136 122 999 00 

. 

. 

. 

142230 2612N 08752W 7010 03057 9282 +102 +102 141153 166 148 999 00 

142300 2612N 08751W 7042 03010 9293 +088 +083 133159 164 147 999 00 

142330 2613N 08750W 6999 03064 9279 +088 +088 138158 161 144 999 00 

142400 2614N 08749W 7005 03046 9281 +080 +080 138155 158 142 999 00 

142430 2614N 08748W 6998 03048 9278 +078 +078 138151 153 137 999 00 

142500 2615N 08747W 7002 03048 9279 +084 +084 140146 148 133 999 00 

$$ 

Figure G-2. HDOB Description and Sample Message
G-7 

Table G-3. Communications Headers for HDOB Messages 

 NODE AWIPS ID WMO HEADER OCEAN BASIN

 MIA AHONT1 URNT15 .... Atlantic 

 MIA AHOPN1 URPN15 .... East and Central Pacific 

 MIA AHOPA1 URPA15 .... West Pacific 

Table G-4. Mission/Ob Identifier Line Format for HDOB Messages 

A sample mission/ob identifier line is given below (beginning with AF302...), followed by a 

description of the parameters. 

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

01234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890 

----------------------------------------------------------------------- 

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII HDOB NN YYYYMMDD 

AF302 1712A KATRINA HDOB 41 20050928  example 

III...III: Mission identifier, as determined in Chapter 5, paragraph 5.7.6. 

NN: Observation number (01-99), assigned sequentially for each HDOB 

 message during the flight. This sequencing is independent of the 

 numbering of other types of messages (RECCO, DROP, VORTEX, etc.), 

 which have their own numbering sequence. 

YYYYMMDD: Year, month, and day of the first HD/HA data line of the message. 
G-8 

Table G-5. HD/HA Data Line Format for HDOB Messages 

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

01234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890 

----------------------------------------------------------------------- 

hhmmss LLLLH NNNNNW PPPP GGGGG XXXX sTTT sddd wwwSSS MMM KKK ppp FF

142230 2612N 08752W 7010 03057 9282 +102 +102 141153 166 148 999 00 

hhmmss: Observation time, in hours, minutes and seconds (UTC). The observation time is 

the midpoint of the 30-s averaging interval used for the record’s meteorological 

data. 

LLLLH: The latitude of the aircraft at the observation time in degrees (LL) and minutes 

(LL). The hemisphere (H) is given as either N or S. 

NNNNNH: The longitude of the aircraft at the observation time, in degrees (NNN) and 

minutes (NN). The hemisphere (H) is given as either E or W. 

PPPP: Aircraft static air pressure, in tenths of mb with decimal omitted, at the 

observation time. If pressure is equal to or greater than 1000 mb the leading 1 is 

dropped. 

GGGGG: Aircraft geopotential height, in meters, at the observation time. 

XXXX: Extrapolated surface pressure or D-value (30-s average). Encoded as extrapolated 

surface pressure if aircraft static pressure is 550.0 mb or greater (i.e., flight 

altitudes at or below 550 mb). Format for extrapolated surface pressure is the 

same as for static pressure. For flight altitudes higher than 550 mb, XXXX is 

encoded as the D-value, in meters. Negative D-values are encoded by adding 

5000 to the D-value. 

s: Sign of the temperature or dew point (+ or -). 

sTTT: The air temperature in degrees and tenths Celsius, decimal omitted (30-s average). 

sddd: The dew point temperature, in degrees and tenths Celsius, decimal omitted (30-s 

average).

www: Wind direction in degrees (30-s average). North winds are coded as 000. 999 

indicates missing value. 

SSS: Wind speed, in kt (30-s average). 999 indicates missing value. 

MMM: Peak 10-second average wind speed occurring within the encoding interval, in kt. 

999 indicates missing value. 
G-9 

KKK: Peak 10-second average surface wind speed occurring within the encoding 

interval from the Stepped Frequency Microwave Radiometer (SFMR), in kt. 999 

indicates missing value. 

ppp: SFMR-derived rain rate, in mm hr-1, evaluated over the 10-s interval chosen for 

KKK . 999 indicates missing value. 

FF: Quality control flags. 

First column indicates status of positional variables as follows: 

0 All parameters of nominal accuracy 

 1 Lat/lon questionable 

 2 Geopotential altitude or static pressure questionable 

 3 Both lat/lon and GA/PS questionable 

 Second column indicates status of meteorological variables as follows: 

0 All parameters of nominal accuracy 

1 T or TD questionable 

2 Flight-level winds questionable 

3 SFMR parameter(s) questionable 

4 T/TD and FL winds questionable 

5 T/TD and SFMR questionable 

6 FL winds and SFMR questionable 

9 T/TD, FL winds, and SFMR questionable 
G-10 

Table G-6. TEMP DROP CODE

EXTRACT FROM: WMO-No. 306 MANUAL ON CODES 

FM 37-X Ext. TEMP DROP: Upper-level pressure, temperature, humidity and wind report from a sonde released by 

carrier balloons or aircraft. See Figure G-3 for an example TEMP DROP message for tropical cyclone operations. 

CODE FORM:

PART A

SECTION 1 MiMiMjMj YYGGId 99LaLaLa QcLoLoLoLo MMMULaULo

SECTION 2 99PoPoPo ToToTaoDoDo dodofofofo

 P1P1h1h1h1 T1T1Ta1D1D1 d1d1f1f1f1

 PnPnhnhnhn TnTnTanDnDn dndnfnfnfn

SECTION 3 88PtPtPt TtTtTatDtDt dtdtftftft

 or 

 88999 

SECTION 4 77PmPmPm dmdmfmfmfm (4vbvbvava) 

 or 

 66PmPmPm dmdmfmfmfm (4vbvbvava) 

 or 

 77999 

 

SECTION 10 31313 

 

 51515 101Adf Adf 0PnPnP'nP'n. 

 or 

 101Adf Adf PnPnhnhnhn 

 61616 

 

 62626 

PART B

SECTION 1 MiMiMjMj YYGG8 99LaLaLa QcLoLoLo MMMULaULo

SECTION 5 nonoPoPoPo ToToTaoDoDo

n1n1P1P1P1 T1T1Ta1D1D1

nnnnPnPnPn TnTnTanDnDn

SECTION 6 21212 nonoPoPoPo dodofofofo
G-11 

n1n1P1P1P1 d1d1f1f1f1

nnnnPnPnPn dndnfnfnfn

SECTION 7 31313 srrarasasa 8GGgg 

SECTION 9 51515 101Adf Adf or 

 101Adf Adf 0PnPnP'nP'n. or 

 101Adf Adf PnPnhnhnhn 

SECTION 10 61616 

 62626 

PART ALPHA (A)

IDENTIFICATION LETTERS: MJMJ

Identifier: MJMJ - Identifier for Part A of the report. 

DATE/TIME GROUP: YYGGId

Identifier: YY - Date group 

Identifier: GG - Time group 

Identifier: Id - The highest mandatory level for which wind is available. 

LATTITUDE: 99LaLaLa 

Identifier: 99 – Indicator for data on position follows. 

Identifier: LaLaLa – Latitude in tenths of degrees 

LONGITUDE: QcLoLoLoLo 

Identifier: Qc – The octant of the globe. 

Identifier: LoLoLoLo – Longitude in tenths of degrees

MARSDEN SQUARE: MMMUlaUlo

Identifier: MMM - Marsden square. 

Identifier: UlaUlo – Units digits in the reported latitude and longitude. 

SEA LEVEL PRESSURE: 99P0P0P0 T0T0T0D0D0 d0d0f0f0f0 

Identifier: 99 – Indicator for data at the surface level follows 

Identifier: P0P0P0 – Indicator for pressure of specified levels in whole millibars (thousands digit omitted) 

Identifier: T0T0T0– Tens and digits of air temperature (not rounded off) in degrees Celsius, at specified levels 

beginning with surface. 

Identifier: D0D0 – Dewpoint depression at standard isobaric surfaces beginning with surface level. 

NOTE

When the depression is 4.9C or less encode the units and tenths digits of the depression. Encode 

depressions of 5.0 through 5.4C as 50. Encode depressions of 5.5C through 5.9C as 56. Dew point 
G-12 

depressions of 6.0 and above are encoded in tens and units with 50 added. Dew point depressions 

for relative humidities less then 20% are encoded as 80. When air temperature is below –40C 

report DnDn as //. 

Identifier: dodo – True direction from which wind is blowing rounded to nearest 5 degrees. Report hundreds and tens 

digits. The unit digit (0 or 5) is added to the hundreds digit of wind speed. 

Identifier: fofofo – Wind speed in knots. Hundreds digit is sum of speed and unit digit of direction, i.e. 295o at 125 

knots encoded as 29625. 

NOTE: 1. When flight level is just above a standard surface and in the operator’s best meteorological judgment, the 

winds are representative of the winds at the standard surface, then the operator may encode the standard surface 

winds using the data from flight level. If the winds are not representative, then encode /////. 

NOTE: 2. The wind group relating to the surface level (dodofofofo) will be included in the report; when the 

corresponding wind data are not available, the group will be encoded as /////. 

STANDARD ISOBARIC SURFACES : P1P1h1h1h1 T1T1T1D1D1 d1d1f1f1f1

Identifier: P1P1 – Pressure of standard isobaric surfaces in units of tens of millibars. 

 (1000 mbs = 00, 925mbs = 92, 850mbs = 85, 700mbs = 70, 500mbs = 50, 400mbs = 40, 300mbs = 30, 

 250mbs = 25). 

Identifier: h1h1h1 – Heights of the standard pressure level in geopotential meters or decameters above the 

surface. Encoded in decameters at and above 500mbs omitting, if necessary, the thousands or tens of 

thousands digits. Add 500 to hhh for negative 1000mb or 925mb heights. Report 1000mb group as 00/// 

///// ///// when pressure is less than 950mbs. 

Identifier: T1T1T1D1D1 – Same temperature/dew point encoding procedures apply to all levels. 

Identifier : d1d1f1f1f1 – Same wind encoding procedures apply to all levels. 

DATA FOR TROPOPAUSE LEVELS: 88 PtPtPt TtTtTtDtDt dtdtftftft

Identifier: 88 – Indicator for Tropopause level follows 

Identifier: PtPtPt– Pressure at the tropopause level reported in whole millibars. Report 88PnPnPn as 88999 when 

tropopause is not observed. 

Identifier: TtTtTtDtDt – Same temperature/ dew point encoding procedures apply. 

Identifier: dtdtftftft - Same wind encoding procedures apply. 

MAXIMUM WIND DATA: 77PnPnPn dndnfnfnfn 4vbvbvava

Identifier: 77 – Indicator that data for maximum wind level and for vertical wind shear follow when max wind does 

not coincide at flight. If the maximum wind level coincides with flight level encode as 66 

Identifier: PnPnPn.– Pressure at maximum wind level in whole millibars. 

Identifier: dndnfnfnfn - Same wind encoding procedures apply. 

VERTICAL WIND SHEAR DATA: 4vbvbvava 

Identifier: 4 – Data for vertical wind shear follow. 

Identifier: vbvb – Absolute value of vector difference between max wind and wind 3000 feet BELOW the level of 

max wind, reported to the nearest knot. Use “//” if missing and a 4 is reported. A vector difference of 99 knots 

or more is reported with the code figure “99”. 
G-13 

Identifier: vava – Absolute value of vector difference between max wind and wind 3000 feet above the level of max 

wind, reported to the nearest knot. Use “//” if missing and a 4 is reported. A vector difference of 99 knots or 

more is reported with the code figure “99”. 

 

 SOUNDING SYSTEM INDICATION, RADIOSONDE/ SYSTEM STATUS, LAUNCH TIME:

 31313 srrarasasa 8GGgg 

Identifier: srrarasasa - Sounding system indicator, radiosonde/ system status: sararasasa

Identifier: sa - Solar and infrared radiation correction ( 0 – no correction) 

Identifier: rara – Radiosonde/sounding system used ( 96 – Descending radiosonde) 

Identifier: sasa – Tracking technique/status of system used ( 08 – Automatic satellite navigation) 

Identifier: 8GGgg – Launch time 

Identifier: 8 – Indicator group 

Identifier: GG – Time in hours 

Identifier: gg – Time in minutes 

ADDITIONAL DATA GROUPS: 51515 101XX 0PnPnPnPn

Identifier: 51515 – Additional data in regional code follow 

Identifier: 10166 – Geopotential data are doubtful between the following levels 0PnPnPnPn. This code figure is used 

only when geopotential data are doubtful from one level to another. 

Identifier: 10167 – Temperature data are doubtful between the following levels 0PnPnPnPn. This code figure shall be 

reported when only the temperature data are doubtful for a portion of the descent. If a 10167 group is reported a 

10166 will also be reported. EXAMPLE: Temperature is doubtful from 540mbs to 510mbs. SLP is 1020mbs. 

The additional data groups would be : 51515 10166 00251 10167 05451. 

Identifier: 10190 – Extrapolated altitude data follows: 

When the sounding begins within 25mbs below a standard surface, the height of the surface is reported 

in the format 10190 PnPnhnhnhn. The temperature group is not reported. EXAMPLE: Assume the 

release was made from 310mbs and the 300mb height was 966 decameters. The last reported 

standard level in Part A is the 400mb level. The data for the 300mb level is reported in Part A and B 

as 1019030966. 

When the sounding does not reach surface, but terminates within 25mbs of a standard surface, the height 

of the standard surface is reported in Part A of the code in standard format and also at the end of Part 

A and Part B of the code in the format as 10190 PnPnhnhnhn. 

EXAMPLE: Assume termination occurred at 980mbs and the extrapolated height of the 1000mb 

level was 115 meters. The 1000mb level would be reported in Part A of the code as 00115 ///// ///// 

and in Part B as 10190 00115. 

Identifier: 10191 – Extrapolated surface pressure precedes. Extrapolated surface pressure is only reported when the 

termination occurs between 850mbs and the surface. Surface pressure is reported in Part A as 99P0P0P0 ///// and in 

Part B as 00P0P0P0 /////. When surface pressure is extrapolated the 10191 group is the last additional data group 

reported in Part B. 

AIRCRAFT AND MISSION IDENTIFICATION: 61616 AFXXX XXXXX XXXXX OB X 

Identifier: 61616 – Aircraft and mission identification data follows. 

Identifier: AFXXX – The identifier AF for U.S. Air Force and the last three digits of the aircraft’s tail number. 

Identifier: XXXXX XXXXX – The identifier for the type of mission being flown.

If a training mission the mission identifier is WXWXA TRAIN. The fifth letter “A” is the only 

character that could possibly change. The “A” defining that the flight originated in the Atlantic 

basin. The letter “C” identifies the Central Pacific area and the letter “E” identifies the Eastern 

Pacific. 

If an operational storm mission: the first two numbers Identifier the number of times an aircraft has 

flown this system and the second two numbers Identifier the system number. The last character 
G-14 

again identifies the basin flown. The name of the storm would replace TRAIN. 

EXAMPLE: AF968 0204A MARIE – Aircraft number 50968, this was the second flight into this 

system and the system was the fourth of the season. The system reached tropical storm strength and 

was named MARIE. 

Identifier: OB 14 – The observation (both vertical and horizontal) number as transmitted from the aircraft. 

NATIONALLY DEVELOPED CODES: 62626

Identifier: 62626 – This is the remarks section. Only the remarks EYE, EYEWALL XXX, MXWNDBND XXX, or 

RAINBAND will be used. If the remarks EYEWALL is used it will be followed by the radian from the eye 

center to the sonde. Example: If the sonde is released in the NE quad of the storm, the value codes is 045. 

Identifier: REL XXXXNXXXXXW hhmmss – Release location of the sonde and the release time. 

Identifier: SPG XXXXNXXXXXW hhmmss - Impact location of the sonde based on its last GPS position and the 

splash time. 

Identifier: SPL XXXXNXXXXXW hhmm - Impact location of the sonde based on its last GPS position and the 

splash time. (SPL has less precision than SPG and may be removed in the next version of the NHOP). 

Identifier: LAST WND XXX - Height of the last reported wind. If a surface wind is reported the Last Wind remark 

is omitted. XXX will never be less than 13 meters 

Identifier: MBL WND dddff - The mean boundary level wind. The mean wind in the lowest 500 meters of the 

sounding 

Identifier: AEV XXXXX - This is the software version being used for the sounding. 

Identifier: DLM WND ddfff bbbttt - The Deep Layer Mean wind. It is the average wind over the depth of the 

sounding. Where ddfff is the wind averaged from the first to the last available wind (these would correspond to 

the first and last significant levels for wind); ttt is the pressure at the top of the layer, and bbb is the pressure at 

the bottom of the layer (in whole mbs, with thousands digit omitted). 

Identifier: WL150 ddfff zzz - Average wind over the lowest available 150 m of the wind sounding. Where ddfff is 

the mean wind over the 150 m layer centered at zzz m. 

PART ALPHA (B)

DATA FOR SIGNIFICANT TEMPERATURE AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY LEVELSSIGNIFICANT 

ISOBARIC LEVELS: 

 n0n0P0P0P0 T0T0T0D0D0

IDENTIFICATION LETTERS: MJMJ

Identifier: MJMJ - Identifier for Part B of the report. 

DATE/TIME GROUP: YYGG8 

Identifier: YY - Date group 

Identifier: GG - Time group 

Identifier: 8 - Indicator for the use of satellite navigation for windfinding. 

 

LATTITUDE: 99LaLaLa (Same as Part A) 

LONGITUDE: QcLoLoLoLo (Same as Part A) 

MARSDEN SQUARE: MMMUlaUlo (Same as Part A) 

SEA LEVEL PRESSURE: nonoP0P0P0 T0T0T0D0D0 

Identifier: nono – Indicator for number of level starting with surface level. Only surface will be numbered as “00”.

Identifier: P0P0P0 – Indicator for pressure of specified levels in whole millibars (thousands digit omitted) 

Identifier: T0T0T0– Tens and digits of air temperature (not rounded off) in degrees Celsius, at specified levels 

beginning with surface. 

Identifier: D0D0 – Dewpoint depression at standard isobaric surfaces beginning with surface level. Encoded the 
G-15 

same as Part A. 

FOR STORM DROPS ONLY. If SLP is less than 950mb encode the 1000mb group as 00/// ///// /////. When the 

SLP is between 950mb and 999mb encode 1000mb as 00PoPoPo ///// ///// (500 meters are added to height 

below surface). 

DATA FOR SIGNIFICANT WIND LEVELS: n0n0P0P0P0 dodofofofo

Identifier: n0n0 – Number of level starting with surface level. Only surface will be numbered as “00”. 

Identifier: P0P0P0 – Pressure at specified levels in whole millibars. 

Identifier: dodo – True direction from which wind is blowing rounded to nearest 5 degrees. Report hundreds and tens 

digits. The unit digit (0 or 5) is added to the hundreds digit of wind speed. 

Identifier: fofofo – Wind speed in knots. Hundreds digit is sum of speed and unit digit of direction, i.e. 295o at 125 

knots encoded as 29625. 

Same notes in Part A apply. 

31313, 51515, 61616, 62626 – Repeated from Part A. 

FIGURE G-3. EXAMPLE TEMP DROP MESSAGE FOR TROPICAL CYCLONES

UZNT13 KNHC 080839 

XXAA 58088 99192 70803 04590 99964 21676 20581 00814 ///// ///// 

92359 20476 22611 85085 18876 24614 88999 77999 

31313 09608 80747 

51515 10190 70752 

61616 AF302 0617A PALOMA OB 16 

62626 EYEWALL 225 SPL 1925N08021W 0750 MBL WND 22112 AEV 20800 DL 

M WND 23107 964833 WL150 21611 079 REL 1920N08030W 074700 SPG 192 

6N08021W 075012 = 

XXBB 58088 99192 70803 04590 00964 21676 11850 18876 22811 18476 

33760 19677 44739 21077 55719 23261 66701 11430 

21212 00964 20581 11963 20585 22960 20604 33958 21120 44955 21626 

55949 22107 66939 22621 77933 22614 88917 22611 99900 23099 11874 

23604 22867 24098 33864 24100 44859 24117 55850 24614 66701 26123 

31313 09608 80747 

51515 10190 70752 

61616 AF302 0617A PALOMA OB 16 

62626 EYEWALL 225 SPL 1925N08021W 0750 MBL WND 22112 AEV 20800 DL 

M WND 23107 964833 WL150 21611 079 REL 1920N08030W 074700 SPG 192 

6N08021W 075012 = 

H-1 

APPENDIX H

WSR-88D OPERATIONS PLAN FOR TROPICAL CYCLONE EVENTS 

 To perform radar center-fixing and obtain other diagnostic information, TPC/NHC must 

obtain radar products from WSR-88D sites in the area of landfall. As a tropical cyclone 

approaches, software commands must be issued at the site, using the Unit Control Position 

(UCP), in order for TPC/NHC to obtain the necessary products. To facilitate this process, 

TPC/NHC, in cooperation with the NWS Weather Forecast Office, Melbourne, and the 

NEXRAD Radar Operations Center (ROC), has developed an operations plan for use during 

tropical cyclone events. 

 The latest addition can be found on the OFCM web site at: 

 http://www.ofcm.gov/homepage/text/pubs.htm 

 I-1

APPENDIX I 

TELEPHONE LISTING 

AGENCY LOCATION TELEPHONE

Department of Commerce 

Alternate NHC (NCEP, HPC) Camp Springs, MD COM 301-763-8201 

AOC Tampa Bay, FL COM 813-828-3310 

CPHC 

Forecaster and Warning Desk 

Admin 

Director 

Operations 

Satellite Coordinator 

Honolulu, HI 

COM 808-973-5284 

COM 808-973-5270 

COM 808-973-5272 

FAX 808-973-5281 

COM 808-973-5285 

WFO Guam Tiyan, Guam COM 671-472-0950/1/2 

NDBC - Operations Branch Stennis Space Center, MS COM 228-688-7720 

NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch Camp Springs, MD COM 301-763-8444 

NHC Miami, FL COM 305-229-4415 

TAFB Lead Forecaster (TPC/NHC) Miami, FL COM 305-229-4425 

Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC) Camp Springs, MD COM 301-763-8201 

NCEP Senior Duty Met (Data QC) Camp Springs, MD COM 301-763-8298 

NWS Hydrometeorological Services Core 

(Headquarters) Silver Spring, MD COM 301-713-1858, ext. 108 

FAX 301-713-1520 

Interdepartmental 

OFCM Silver Spring, MD COM 301-427-2002 

DSN 851-1460 

Department of Defense 

AFWA Offutt AFB, NE COM 402-294-7264 

DSN 271-7264 

CARCAH OLA, 53d WRS Miami, FL COM 305-229-4474 

DSN 434-3420 

FACSFAC VACAPES OAC Oceana, VA COM 804-433-1233 

DSN 433-1233 

FACSFAC Roosevelt Roads Roosevelt Roads, PR COM 787-865-7007 

DSN 831-7007/5202/5203 

17 OWS/WXJ (Satellite Analyst) Pearl Harbor, HI COM 787-865-7007 

DSN 471-3533 

325 OSS/OSW (SE Air Defense Sector/WE) Tyndall AFB, FL COM 904-283-2845 

DSN 523-2845 

Keesler AFB Command Post Keesler AFB, MS COM 228-377-4330 

DSN 597-4330 

NAVLANTMETOCCEN Norfolk, VA COM 757-444-7583/7750 

DSN 564-7583/7750 

JTWC (Typhoon Duty Officer) Pearl Harbor, HI COM 808-474-2320 

Fleet Numerical Meteorology & Oceanography 

Center (FNMOC) (Alternate JTWC) Monterey, CA COM 831-656-4325 

DSN 878-4325 

53 WRS/DO Keesler AFB, MS COM 228-377-2409 

DSN 597-2409 

53 WRS (Office) Keesler AFB, MS COM 228-377-3207 

DSN 597-3207 

53 WRS (Alternate CARCAH) Keesler AFB, MS COM 228-377-9060 

DSN 597-9060 
 I-2

Department of Transportation/Federal Aviation Administration 

 ARTCC PHONE DIRECTORY 

ARTCC 

ID TMU ADMINISTRATION 

WATCH DESK 

OPERATIONS MANAGER 

ANCHORAGE ZAN 907-269-1108 907-269-1137 907-269-1103 

ALBUQUERQUE ZAB 505-856-4547 505-856-4601 505-856-4500 

CHICAGO ZAU 630-906-8445 630-906-8221 630-906-8341 

BOSTON ZBW 603-879-6666 603-879-6633 603-879-6655 

WASHINGTON ZDC 703-771-3471 703-771-3440/1 703-771-3470 

DENVER ZDV 303-651-4540 303-651-4101 303-651-4248 

FT. WORTH ZFW 817-858-7520 817-858-7500 817-858-7503 

HOUSTON ZHU 281-230-5530 281-230-5600 281-230-5560 

INDIANAPOLIS ZID 317-247-2267 317-247-2231 317-247-2242 

JACKSONVILLE ZJX 904-549-1570 904-549-1501 904-549-1537 

KANSAS CITY ZKC 913-254-8502 913-254-8403 913-791-8500 

LOS ANGELES ZLA 661-265-8250 661-265-8215 661-265-8205 

SALT LAKE CITY ZLC 801-320-2580 801-320-2501 801-320-2560 

MIAMI ZMA 305-716-1736 305-716-1500 305-716-1588 

MEMPHIS ZME 901-368-8250 901-368-8103 901-368-8234 

MINNEAPOLIS ZMP 651-463-5517 651-463-5510 651-463-5580 

NEW YORK ZNY 631-468-1010 631-468-1001 631-468-5959 

OAKLAND ZOA 510-745-3812 510-745-3000 510-745-3331 

CLEVELAND ZOB 440-774-0319 440-774-0320 440-774-0426 

SEATTLE ZSE 253-351-3525 253-351-3500 253-351-3520 

ATLANTA ZTL 770-210-7697 770-210-7600/3 770-210-7622 

HONOLULU HNL N/A 808-840-6100 808-840-6201 

SAN JUAN SJU 787-253-8707 787-253-8664/5 

TORONTO YYZ 905-676-4590/1/2 

MONTREAL YUL 514-633-3211 

MONCTON YOM 506-867-7176 

WINNIPEG YWG 204-983-8337 

EDMONTON YEG 780-890-8304/5 

Note: 

TMO - Traffic Management 

Officer 

 

Area Manager - Watch 

Supervisor 

 

ARTCC - Air Route Traffic 

Control Center 

GANDER YQX 709-651-5225 Canadian ACC - Area Control 

VANCOUVER YVR 604-775-9601/6 Centre 
 I-3

Department of Transportation/Federal Aviation Administration (continued) 

Air Traffic Tactical Operations (ATT-100) COM 703-904-4403 

Air Traffic Management Service COM 703-904-4401 

Air Traffic Control System Command Center (ATT 

2) 

800-333-4286 

Central Altitude Reservation Function (CARF) COM 703-904-4427 

DSN 725-3331/725-3333 

National NOTAM Office COM 703-904-4557 

ATCSCC National Operations Manager (NOM) COM 703-904-4525/703-904-4953 

800-333-4286 MILITARY USE ONLY 

Canadian OFCF (ARU)

Admin Hours COM 613-998-6583 

Teleconference COM 613-954-7425 

COM 613-957-6390 

ARU Ops (24 Hours) (ATCSCC of Canada) COM 613-957-6343 

COM 613-992-9740 

COM 613-992-7940 

COM 613-992-9751 

ARU Fax COM 613-957-6412 

Center Weather Service Units (CWSU) in FAA Coastal Facilities

Boston ARTCC COM 603-879-6698 

New York ARTCC COM 631-468-1083 

Washington ARTCC COM 703-771-3480 

Jacksonville ARTCC COM 904-549-1839 

Miami ARTCC COM 305-716-1635 

Houston ARTCC COM 281-230-5676 

Los Angeles ARTCC COM 661-265-8258 

Oakland ARTCC COM 510-745-3457 

Seattle ARTCC COM 253-351-3741 

Anchorage ARTCC COM 907-269-1145 

J-1 

APPENDIX J

GEOGRAPHICAL DEFINING POINTS AND PHONETIC PRONUNCIATIONS 

Abaco AB-a-KO 

Abreojos aahbray-oh-hoes 

Amalie a-MAHL-ye 

Angel aan-hel 

Anguilla ang-GWIL-a 

Antigua an-TEE-ga 

Arena aah-ray-nah 

Arista ah-ree-staa 

Aruba ah-ROO-ba 

Antilles an-TILL-leez 

Azores uh-ZOHRZ 

Bahia ba-e-yuh 

Ballenas ba-yaynas 

Barahona ba-ra-HO-na 

Barbados bar-BAY-dohz 

Barbuda bar-BOO-dah 

Barra baa-rra 

Barranquilla Bahr-rahn-KEE-yah 

Basse-Terre baha-TER 

Bimini BIM-I-ni 

Bonaire ba-NAIR 

Burros bhoorroes 

Cap Haitien kahp ah-ee-SYAN 

Caracas kah-RAH-kahs 

Cardenas car-denaass 

Caribbean kar-a-BE-an 

Castries KAS-tree 

Cayman kay-MAHN 

Champerico chaam-per-e-coe 

Charlotte 

Colima coleema 

Corrientes cor-re-ehn-tays 

Cozumel koh-soo-MEL 

Curacao koor-a-SOH 

Cuyutlan coo-yootlaan 

Dominica dom-I-NEE-ka 

Eleuthera el-OO-thera 

Escondido es-cond-dee-dow 

Eugenia ayuh-hen-yuh 

Exuma ek-SOO-ma 

Flores FLO-rish 

Fort de France for-de-FRAHCS 

Galera gaa-lehra 

Grenada gre-NAY-dah 

Guadaloupe GWAH-deh-loop 

Guasave gwaa-saa-ve 

Guaymas gwhy-maahs 

Huatulco whaa-tool-coe 

Islas eeslas 

Jalisco ha-lee-sco 

Juanico whaa-nee-coe 

Lazaro laasa-roe 

Loreto lo-ae-toe 

Leeward LEE-werd 

Manzanillo manza-nee-oh 

Maracaibo mar-a-KYE-boh 

Maracay mah-rah-KYE 

Marigot ma-ree-GOH 

Mateo muh-ta-yo 

Mayaguez may-yah-GWAYS 

Medano may-daa-no 

Melaque may-laa-kay 

Merida MAY-re-thah 

Mochis mo-chees 

Montego mon-TEE-go 

Montserrat mont-se-RAT 

Mugu muhgu 

Mulege moo-lay-hay 

Nicaragua nik-a-RAH-gwah 
J-2 

Ocho Rios OH-cho REE-os 

Oranjestad o-RAHN-yuh-stat 

Paramaribo par-a-MAR-I-boh 

Parguera par-GWER-a 

Penasco pen-yaas-co 

Pointe-a-Pitre pwan-ta-PEE-tr 

Ponce PON-sa 

Port-au-Prince port-oh-PRINS 

Punta poonta 

Revillagigedo ray-veeaheehaydo 

Saba SAH-ba 

Sao Miguel soun ME-gel 

Sipacate see-paa-caa-tay 

St Croix ST croy 

St Lucia ST LOO-she-a 

Soufriere soo-free-AR 

Surinam SOOR-I-nam 

Tampico tam-PEE-ko 

Tehuantepec te-whaan-te-pec 

Tela TAY-lah 

Tobago to-BAY-go 

Todos todohs 

Tomas tow-maas 

Tonala ton-aahla 

Tosca toesca 

Vallarta vah-yar-ta 

Yavaros yaa-vaa-roce 

Yucatan yoo-ka-TAN 

Zihuatanejo zeeh-whaa-tanayho 
K-1 

APPENDIX K

ACRONYMS/ABBREVIATIONS

-AAB Data type header for Tropical Weather Outlook 

AFB Air Force Base 

AFRC Air Force Reserve Command 

AFSATCOM Air Force Satellite Communications System 

AFWA Air Force Weather Agency 

AIM Airman's Information Manual 

AMOS Automated Meteorological Observing Station 

AMSU Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit 

AOC Aircraft Operations Center (NOAA) 

APT Automatic Picture Transmission 

ARGOS Argos, Inc., a French data collection system 

ARSA Airport Radar Service Area 

ARTCC Air Route Traffic Control Center 

ARWO Aerial Reconnaissance Weather Officer 

APUP Associated Principal User Processor (WSR-88D) 

ASDL Aircraft-to-Satellite Data Link 

ATC Air Traffic Control 

ATCSCC Air Traffic Control System Command Center 

ATCT Air Traffic Control Tower (FAA) 

AVAPS Advanced Vertical Atmospheric Profiling System 

AVHRR Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer 

AWIPS Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System 

-CCARCAH Chief, Aerial Reconnaissance Coordination, All Hurricanes 

CARF Central Altitude Reservation Function 

CERAP Center En Route Approach (FAA) 

CFW Coastal Flood Watch/Warning 

C.I. Current Intensity 

C-MAN Coastal-Marine Automated Network 

CMC Crisis Management Center (FAA) 

CNMI Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands 

COM Commercial (telephone) 

CONUS Continental United States 

CPHC Central Pacific Hurricane Center 

°C degree/degrees Celsius 
K-2 

-DDA Daylight Ascending 

DCS Data Collection System 

deg degree (latitude or longitude) 

Det detachment 

DMSP Defense Meteorological Satellite Program 

DOC Department of Commerce 

DOD Department of Defense 

DOT Department of Transportation 

DPTD departed 

DROP dropsonde/dropwindsonde 

DSN Defense Switched Network (formerly AUTOVON) 

DTG date/time group 

-EEDT Eastern Daylight Time 

ESA European Space Agency 

ETA Estimated Time of Arrival 

ETD Estimated Time of Departure 

-FFAA Federal Aviation Administration 

FACSFAC Fleet Aerial Control and Surveillance Facility 

FCM Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting 

 Research 

FCMSSR Federal Committee for Meteorological Services and Supporting 

 Research 

FCST forecast 

FCSTR forecaster 

FEA Flow Evaluation Area (FAA) 

FL flight level 

FLT LVL flight level 

FMH Federal Meteorological Handbook 

FNMOC Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center (USN) 

FSM Federated States of Micronesia 

ft foot/feet 

FTS Federal Telephone System 

 

-GGAC Global Area Coverage 

GOES Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite 

GMDSS Global Maritime Distress and Safety System 

GMS Geostationary Meteorological Satellite 

GTS Global Telecommunications System 
K-3 

-HHA High Accuracy 

HD High Density 

HDOB High Density Observation 

HF High Frequency 

hPa hectopascal/hectopascals 

h hour/hours 

HLS Hurricane Local Statement 

HNL Honolulu (CPHC) 

HPC Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (NCEP) 

HRD Hurricane Research Division (NOAA/OAR/ERL/AOML) 

HRPT High Resolution Picture Transmission 

-IICAO International Civil Aviation Organization 

ICMSSR Interdepartmental Committee for Meteorological Services and 

 Supporting Research 

ID identification 

IFR Instrument Flight Rules 

INIT initials 

IOM International Operations Manager (FAA) 

IR Infrared 

IWRS Improved Weather Reconnaissance System 

-JJTWC Joint Typhoon Warning Center 

-Kkm kilometer/kilometers 

KBIX ICAO identifier for Keesler AFB, MS 

KMIA ICAO identifier for Miami, FL 

KMKC ICAO identifier for Kansas City, MO WSFO 

KNEW ICAO identifier for New Orleans, LA WSFO 

KNHC ICAO identifier for the Tropical Prediction Center/National 

Hurricane Center, Miami, FL 

KSFO ICAO identifier for San Francisco, CA 

kt knot/knots 

KWAL ICAO identifier for Wallops Island, VA 

-LLAC Local Area Coverage 

LF Light Fine (satellite data terminology) 

LI Long Island 
K-4 

LS Light Smooth (satellite data terminology) 

-Mm meter/meters 

MANOP communications header 

MAX maximum 

METEOSAT European Space Agency geostationary meteorological satellite 

MIA Minimum IFR Altitude 

min/MIN minute 

MHS Microwave Humidity Sounder 

MOU Memorandum of Understanding 

mph mile/miles per hour 

MTSAT-1R Japanese Geostationary Satellite 

MVMT movement 

-NNAPUP Non-associated Principal User Processor (WSR-88D) 

NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

NAVLANTMETOCCEN Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Center 

NAVLANTMETOCDET Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Detachment 

NAVLANTMETOCFAC Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Facility 

NAVMETOCCOM Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command 

NAVOCEANO Naval Oceanographic Office 

NAVPACMETOCCEN Naval Pacific Meteorology and Oceanography Center 

NAVTRAMETOCFAC Naval Training Meteorology and Oceanography Facility 

NCEP National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NOAA/NWS) 

NCO NCEP Central Operations 

NDBC National Data Buoy Center 

NESDIS National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service 

NFDC National Flight Data notice to airman Center 

NHC National Hurricane Center 

NHOP National Hurricane Operations Plan 

NLT Not Later Than 

nm nautical miles 

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

NOM National Operations Manager (FAA) 

NOTAM Notice to Airmen 

NRL Naval Research Laboratory 

NSC NOAA Science Center 

NSTL National Space Technology Laboratories (NASA) 

NWS National Weather Service 

-OOAC Oceanic Aircraft Coordinator (USN) 
K-5 

OB observation 

OFCM Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and 

 Supporting Research 

OPC Ocean Prediction Center (NCEP) 

OSDPD Office of Satellite Data Processing and Distribution (NESDIS) 

OSF Operational Support Facility (WSR-88D) 

OSS Operations Support Squadron (USAF) 

-PPA Public Affairs 

PANC ICAO identifier for Anchorage, AK 

PCN Position Confidence Number 

PHFO ICAO identifier for Honolulu, HI 

POD Plan of the Day 

POES Polar-Orbiting Environmental Satellite 

PRF pulse repetition frequency (WSR-88D) 

-RRECCO Reconnaissance Code 

RECON reconnaissance 

REQT requested 

ROC Radar Operations Center 

RPS routine product set (WSR-88D) 

RSMC Regional/Specialized Meteorological Center (WMO) 

-SSAB Satellite Analysis Branch 

SFC surface 

SFDF Satellite Field Distribution Facility 

SLP Sea Level Pressure 

SPC Storm Prediction Center (NCEP) 

SSM/I Special Sensor Microwave Imager (DMSP) 

SSM/IS Special Sensor Microwave Imager Sounder 

SSM/T Special Sensor Microwave Temperature Sounder 

SST Sea Surface Temperature 

STMC Supervisory Traffic Management Coordinator (FAA) 

SVD Supplementary Vortex Data 

-TTAFB Tropical Analysis Forecast Branch (TPC) 

TCA Aviation Tropical Cyclone Advisory 

TCD Tropical Cyclone Discussion 

TCE Tropical Cyclone Position Estimate 

TCP Tropical Cyclone Public Advisory 
K-6 

TCPOD Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day 

TD Tropical Depression 

TEMP temperature 

TEMP temporary 

TEMP DROP Dropwindsonde Code 

TF Thermal Fine 

TKO takeoff 

TMO Traffic Management Officer in air route centers and towers 

T-number Tropical classification number 

TOVS TIROS-N Operational Vertical Sounder 

TRMM Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission 

TPC Tropical Prediction Center 

TS Thermal Smooth 

TWO Tropical Weather Outlook 

-UUAS Unmanned Aerial Systems 

UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle 

UCP unit control position (WSR-88D) 

UHF Ultra High Frequency 

US/U.S. United States 

USAF United States Air Force 

USCG United States Coast Guard 

USN United States Navy 

UTC Universal Coordinated Time 

-VVAS VISSR Atmospheric Sounder 

VCP volume coverage pattern (WSR-88D) 

VDM Vortex Data Message 

VDUC VAS Data Utilization Center 

VIS Visible 

VIIRS Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer 

VISSR Visible and Infrared Spin Scan Radiometer 

VMI velocity measurement increment (WSR-88D) 

VTPR Vertical Temperature Profile Radiometer 

-WWEFAX Weather Facsimile 

WESTPAC Western Pacific 

WFO Weather Forecast Office 

WMO World Meteorological Organization 

WND wind 

WO Data type header for special tropical disturbance statements 
K-7 

WPMDS Weather Product Management and Distribution System (Offutt AFB) 

WRS Weather Reconnaissance Squadron 

WS Weather Squadron 

WSD Wind Speed and Direction (data buoy) 

WSR-88D Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler 

WT Data type header for hurricane bulletins 

WW Data type header for subtropical storm bulletins 

-XXMTD transmitted 

-ZZ Zulu (UTC)

L-1 

APPENDIX L 

GLOSSARY

-AAgency. Any Federal agency or organization participating in the tropical cyclone warning 

service. 

Airport Radar Service Area (ARSA). Regulatory airspace surrounding designated airports 

wherein ATC provides radar vectoring and sequencing on a full-time basis for all IFR and 

VFR aircraft. The service provided in an ARSA is called ARSA Service which includes: 

IFR/IFR-standard IFR separation; IFR/VFR-traffic advisories and conflict resolution; and 

VFR/VFR-traffic advisories and, as appropriate, safety alert. The Airman's Information 

Manual (AIM) contains an explanation of ARSA. The ARSA's are depicted on VFR 

aeronautical charts. 

Air Traffic Control System Command Center (ATCSCC). The facility responsible for the 

real-time command, control, and oversight of air traffic activity within the National Airspace 

System. The ATCSCC is a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week operation. 

Area Manager. Supervisor in charge of air route traffic control center or airport tower, shift to 

shift. 

-CCenter Fix. The location of the center of a tropical or subtropical cyclone obtained by means 

other than reconnaissance aircraft penetration. See also Vortex Fix. 

Controlled Airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control service 

is provided to IFR flights and to VFR flights in accordance with the airspace classification. 

 a. Controlled airspace is a generic term that covers Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and 

Class E airspace. 

 b. Controlled airspace is also that airspace within which all aircraft operators are subject to 

certain pilot qualifications, operating rules, and equipment requirements in FAR Part 91 

(for specific operating requirements, please refer to FAR Part 91). For IFR operations in 

any class of controlled airspace, a pilot must file an IFR flight plan and receive an 

appropriate ATC clearance. Each Class B, Class C, and Class D airspace area designated 

for an airport contains at least one primary airport around which the airspace is 

designated (for specific designations and descriptions of the airspace classes, please refer 

to FAR Part 71). 

 c. Controlled airspace in the United States is designated as follows: 
L-2 

 CLASS A: Generally, that airspace from 18,000 feet MSL up to and including FL 600, 

including the airspace overlying the waters within 12 nautical miles of the coast of the 

48 contiguous States and Alaska. Unless otherwise authorized, all persons must operate 

their aircraft under IFR. 

CLASS B: Generally, that airspace from the surface to 10,000 feet MSL surrounding 

the nations's busiest airports in terms of airport operations or passenger enplanements. 

The configuration of each Class B airspace area is individually tailored and consists of a 

surface area and two or more layers (some Class B airspaces areas resemble upside-down 

wedding cakes), and is designed to contain all published instrument procedures once an 

aircraft enters the airspace. An ATC clearance is required for all aircraft to operate in 

the area, and all aircraft that are so cleared receive separation services within the 

airspace. The cloud clearance requirement for VFR operations is "clear of clouds." 

CLASS C: Generally, that airspace from the surface to 4,000 feet above the airport 

elevation (charted in MSL) surrounding those airports that have an operational control 

tower, are serviced by a radar approach control, and that have a certain number of IFR 

operations or passenger enplanements. Although the configuration of each Class C area 

is individually tailored, the airspace usually consists of a surface area with a 5 nautical 

mile (NM) radius, an outer circle with a 10 NM radius that extends from 1,200 feet to 

4,000 feet above the airport elevation and an outer area. Each person must establish twoway radio communications with the ATC facility providing air traffic services prior to 

entering the airspace and thereafter maintain those communications while within the 

airspace. VFR aircraft are only separated from IFR aircraft within the airspace. (See 

OUTER AREA). 

CLASS D: Generally, that airspace from the surface to 2,500 feet above the airport 

elevation (charted in MSL) surrounding those airports that have an operational control 

tower. The configuration of each Class D airspace area is individually tailored and when 

instrument procedures are published, the airspace will normally be designed to contain 

the procedures. Arrival extensions for instrument approach procedures may be Class D 

or Class E airspace. Unless otherwise authorized, each person must establish two-way 

radio communications with the ATC facility providing air traffic services prior to 

entering the airspace and thereafter maintain those communications while in the airspace. 

No separation services are provided to VFR aircraft. 

CLASS E: Generally, if the airspace is not Class A, Class B, Class C, or Class D, and it 

is controlled airspace, it is Class E airspace. Class E airspace extends upward from 

either the surface or a designated altitude to the overlying or adjacent controlled 

airspace. When designated as a surface area, the airspace will be configured to contain 

all instrument procedures. Also in this class are Federal airways, airspace beginning at 

either 700 or 1,200 AGL used to transition to/from the terminal or en route environment, 

en route domestic, and offshore airspace areas designated below 18,000 feet MSL. 

Unless designated at a lower altitude, Class E airspace begins at 14,500 MSL over the 

United States, including that airspace overlying the waters within 12 nautical miles of the 

48 contiguous States and Alaska, up to, but not including 18,000 MSL, and the airspace 
L-3 

above FL 600. 

Cyclone. An atmospheric closed circulation rotating counter-clockwise in the Northern 

Hemisphere. 

-EExtratropical cyclone. A synoptic scale low pressure system whose primary energy source is 

baroclinic. 

Eye. The relatively calm center of the tropical cyclone that is more than one half surrounded by 

wall cloud. 

Eye Wall. An organized band of cumuliform clouds immediately surrounding the center of a 

tropical cyclone. Eye wall and wall cloud are used synonymously. 

-HHigh-Density/High-Accuracy (HD/HA) Data. Those data provided by automated airborne 

systems--WP-3s or WC-130s equipped with the Improved Weather Reconnaissance System. 

 

Hurricane/Typhoon. A warm-core tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface 

wind speed (l-min mean) is 64 kt (74 mph) or more. 

 

Hurricane/Typhoon/Tropical Cyclone Season. The portion of the year having a relatively 

high incidence of hurricanes/typhoons/tropical cyclones. The seasons for the specific areas 

are as follows (Note: tropical cyclones can occur during any month of the year in the Western 

Pacific.): 

 Atlantic, Caribbean, 

 and the Gulf of Mexico June 1 to November 30 

 Eastern Pacific May 15 to November 30 

 Central Pacific June 1 to November 30

 Western Pacific July 1 to December 31 

Hurricane Warning Offices. The designated hurricane warning offices follow: 

 Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center, Miami, Florida 

 Central Pacific Hurricane Center, Honolulu, Hawaii 

Hurricane/Typhoon Warning. An announcement that sustained winds of 64 knots (74 mph or 

119 km/hr) or higher are expected within the specified coastal area. TPC/NHC issues 

warnings when conditions along the coast are expected within 24 hours. CPHC and WFO 

Guam issue warnings when conditions are expected along the coast within 36 hours. 
L-4 

Hurricane/Typhoon Watch. An announcement that sustained winds of 64 knots (74 mph or 

119 km/hr) or higher are possible within the specified coastal area. TPC/NHC issues watches 

when conditions along the coast are possible within 36 hours. CPHC and WFO Guam issue 

watches when conditions are possible along the coast within 48 hours. 

-IICAO-Controlled Airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control 

service is provided to IFR flights and to VFR flights in accordance with the airspace 

classification. (Note: Controlled airspace is a generic term which covers Air Traffic Service 

airspace Classes A, B, C, D, and E). 

-MMajor Hurricane. A "major" hurricane is one that is classified as a Category 3 or higher. 

Maximum 1-Min Sustained Surface Wind. When applied to a particular weather system, 

refers to the highest 1-minute average wind (at an elevation on 10 meters with an 

unobstructed exposure) associated with that weather system at a particular point in time. 

Micronesia. An area defined by the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, the 

Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall 

Islands. 

Miles. The term "miles" used in this plan refers to nautical miles (nm) unless otherwise 

 indicated. 

 

Mission Identifier. The nomenclature assigned to tropical and subtropical cyclone aircraft 

reconnaissance missions for weather data identification. It's an agency-aircraft indicator 

followed by a Chief, Aerial Reconnaissance Coordination, All Hurricanes (CARCAH) 

assigned mission-system indicator. 

-NNational Operations Manager. Supervisor in charge of the overall operation of the Air Traffic 

Control System Command Center. 

-PPresent Movement. The best estimate of the movement of the center of a tropical cyclone at a 

given time and at a given position. This estimate does not reflect the short-period, small-scale 

oscillations of the cyclone center. 

-R-
L-5 

Reconnaissance Aircraft Sortie. A flight that meets the requirements of the tropical cyclone 

plan of the day. 

Relocated. A term used in an advisory to indicate that a vector drawn from the preceding 

advisory position to the latest known position is not necessarily a reasonable representation of 

the cyclone's movement. 

-SStorm Surge. An abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or other intense storm, 

and whose height is the difference between the observed level of the sea surface and the level 

that would have occurred in the absence of the cyclone. Storm surge is usually estimated by 

subtracting the normal or astronomic tide from the observed storm tide. 

Storm Tide. The actual level of sea water resulting from the astronomic tide combined with the 

storm surge. 

Subtropical Cyclone. A non-frontal low pressure system that has characteristics of both 

tropical and extratropical cyclones. This system is typically an upper-level cold low with 

circulation extending to the surface layer and maximum sustained winds generally occurring 

at a radius of about 100 miles or more from the center. In comparison to tropical cyclones, 

such systems have a relatively broad zone of maximum winds that is located farther from the 

center, and typically have a less symmetric wind field and distribution of convection. 

 

Subtropical Depression. A subtropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind 

speed (l-min mean) is 33 knots (38 mph) or less. 

Subtropical Storm. A subtropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed 

(1-min mean) is 34 knots (39 mph) or higher. 

Super Typhoon. A "super" typhoon is one that is classified as having winds of 130 knots (150 

mph) or greater. 

Sustained Surface Wind. The 1-minute averaged wind at the 10-meter elevation with an 

unobstructed exposure. 

Synoptic Surveillance (formerly Synoptic Track). Weather reconnaissance mission flown to 

provide vital meteorological information in data sparse ocean areas as a supplement to 

existing surface, radar, and satellite data. Synoptic flights better define the upper atmosphere 

and aid in the prediction of tropical cyclone motion and intensity. 

-TTraffic Management Specialist. ATCSCC personnel responsible for the active management of 
L-6 

traffic throughout the National Airspace System. 

Tropical Cyclone. A warm-core, non-frontal synoptic-scale cyclone, originating over tropical 

or subtropical waters, with organized deep convection and a closed surface wind circulation 

about a well-defined center. 

Tropical Cyclone Plan of the Day. A coordinated mission plan that tasks operational weather 

reconnaissance requirements during the next 1100 to 1100Z UTC day or as required, 

describes reconnaissance flights committed to satisfy both operational and research 

requirements, and identifies possible reconnaissance requirements for the succeeding 24-hour 

period. 

Tropical Depression. A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed 

(l-min mean) is 33 kt (38 mph) or less. 

Tropical Disturbance. A discrete tropical weather system of apparently organized convection-

-generally 100 to 300 mi in diameter--originating in the tropics or subtropics, having a 

nonfrontal migratory character, and maintaining its identity for 24 hours or more. It may or 

may not be associated with a detectable perturbation of the wind field. 

Tropical Storm. A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed (l-min 

mean) ranges from 34 kt (39 mph) to 63 kt (73 mph). 

Tropical Storm Warning. An announcement that sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 

mph or 63 to 118 km/hr) are expected within the specified coastal area. TPC/NHC issues 

warnings when conditions along the coast are expected within 24 hours. CPHC and WFO 

Guam issue warnings when conditions are expected along the coast within 36 hours. 

 

Tropical Storm Watch. An announcement that sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 

mph or 63 to 118 km/hr) are possible within the specified coastal area. TPC/NHC issues 

watches when conditions along the coast are possible within 36 hours. CPHC and WFO 

Guam issue watches when conditions are possible along the coast within 48 hours. 

Tropical Wave. A trough or cyclonic curvature maximum in the trade-wind easterlies. The 

wave may reach maximum amplitude in the lower middle troposphere or may be the 

reflection of an upper tropospheric cold low or equatorial extension of a middle latitude 

trough. 

 

Tropical Weather System. A designation for one of a series of tropical weather anomalies. As 

such, it is the basic generic designation, which in successive stages of intensification, may be 

classified as a tropical disturbance, wave, depression, storm, or hurricane. 

Typhoon/Hurricane. A warm-core tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface 

wind speed (l-min mean) is 64 kt (74 mph) or more. 
L-7 

-UUncontrolled Airspace (Class G Airspace). That portion of the airspace that has not been 

designated as Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, or Class E and within which Air Traffic 

Control has neither the authority nor the responsibility for exercising control over air traffic. 

-VVortex Fix. The location of the surface and/or flight level center of a tropical or subtropical 

cyclone obtained by reconnaissance aircraft penetration. See Center Fix, also. 

-WWall Cloud. An organized band of cumuliform clouds immediately surrounding the center of a 

tropical cyclone. Wall cloud and eye wall are used synonymously. 

M-1 

APPENDIX M 

DISTRIBUTION 

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION 

Administration Office, Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) 20 

Assistant Administrator for Satellite and Information Services (E) 2 

Director, National Climatic Data Center (E/CC) 2 

Chief, Satellite Services Division (E/SP2) 1 

Chief, Library Division MASC (MC5) 2 

Assistant Administrator for Ocean Svcs and Coastal Zone Management (N) 1 

Director, Office of Public Affairs, NOAA (PA) 2 

Assistant Administrator for Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (R) 1 

Director, Environmental Research Laboratories (R/E/FS) 4 

Chief, International Programs (R/E/FS7) 2 

Director, AOML Hurricane Research Division (R/E/AO) 5 

Director, Program Development and Coordination Staff (R/PDC) 2 

Assistant Administrator for Weather (W) 1 

Director, National Data Buoy Center (W/DB) 6 

Director, National Centers for Environmental Prediction (W/NP) 1 

Director, Central Operations (W/NP1) 2 

Director, Environmental Modeling Center (W/NP2) 1 

Deputy Director, Environmental Modeling Center (W/NP2x1) 1 

Director, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (W/NP3) 2 

Director, Marine Prediction Center (W/NP4) 2 

Director, Tropical Prediction Center (W/NP8) 20 

Chief, Hydrologic Services Division (W/OS3) 1 

Director, Office of Meteorology (W/OM) 1 

Chief, International Activities Division (W/IA) 1 

Chief, Marine and Coastal Weather Services (W/OS21) 10 

Director, NWS Eastern Region (W/ER) 50 

Director, NWS Central Region (W/CR) 16 

Director, NWS Southern Region (W/SR) 56 

Director, NWS Western Region (W/WR) 15 

Director, NWS Pacific Region (W/PR) 15 

NOAA Budget Officer, Office of Management and Budget 1 
M-2 

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 

OFFICE OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF 

Joint Staff/J3/DDGO-ROD 2 

UNIFIED/SPECIFIED COMMANDS 

USCENTCOM/CCJ3-OW 1 

USCINCPAC/J316 (ENV.GP) 1 

USCINCSO/SCJ3-SWO 1 

USEUCOM/EPOC-CCPD 

USJFCOM 1 

USSOCOM/SCSO-OC-M 1 

USSOUTHCOM/SCJ322 1 

USTRANSCOM/TCJ3 1 

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE 

HQ USAF/A3O-W 3 

HQ ACC/DOW 34 

HQ AFMC/DOW 2 

HQ AFSPC/XOSW 5 

HQ AFSOC/DOW 1 

HQ AMC/A3W 10 

HQ AOC/XPPD 1 

HQ AETC/TTO 2 

HQ AETC/DOYW 10 

HQ AU/WE 1 

HQ AFWA/XO 6 

HQ PACAF/DOW 6 

HQ USAFE/DOW 2 

AFRL/VSB (AFMC) 1 

AFCCC (AFWA) 1 

AFCWC (AFWA) 1 

ANG/XOOSW 1 

MSD/AOW (AETC) 1 

OO-ALC/LHW 2 

3 WS/CC 1 

17 OWS/CC 1 

18 WS/CC 1 

25 OWS/CC 2 

26 OWS/CC 2 

28 OWS/CC 2 

36 OSS/OSW (PACAF) 1 
M-3 

45 WS/CC 3 

45 SPW/XP and SE 4 

46 WS/CC 2 

88 WS/CC 1 

78 OSS/OSW 1 

325 OSS/OSW 1 

335 TRS/UAO 2 

607 WS/CC 1 

AFRC 

HQ USAF/REX 3 

HQ AFRC/DOO 2 

HQ AFRC/DOT/DOTA 2 

HQ AFRC/DOVA 2 

HQ 22AF/DOT/DOTA 2 

403 WG/DO/XP 5 

53 WRS/DOV 35 

CARCAH (OL-A 53 WRS) 10 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 

HQ Department of the Army/DAMI- POB 2 

Topographic Engineering Center 1 

COE/CEWES-CD-P 1 

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY 

Commandant of the Marine Corps (DCS/Aviation) 12 

Oceanographer of the Navy 2 

NAVMETOCCOM 5 

Commanding Officer, NAVOCEANO (N2513) 1 

Commanding Officer, NAVLANTMETOCCEN 2 

NAVPACMETOCCEN/JTWC, Pearl Harbor, HI 2 

NAVLANTMETOCFAC Jacksonville 1 

NAVTRAMETOCFAC Pensacola 1 

CINCLANTFLT (N37) 2 

CINCPACFLT (N3WX) 1 

COMTHIRDFLT 1 

COMFITMATAEWWINGLANT, NAS Oceana, VA 1 

Commander, Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division 2 

Office of Naval Research (Code 1122MM) 2 

NRL, Stennis Space Center, MS 1 

NRL, Atmospheric Division, Monterey, CA 2 

OPTEVFOR (Code 314) 1 

Coastal System Station (Code 05W) 1 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 
M-4 

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION 

Air Traffic System Requirements Service ARS-1 1 

Air Traffic System Requirements Service/Weather ARW-1 1 

Air Traffic Operations ATO-1 3 

Air Traffic Operations ATO-110 1 

Air Traffic Operations ATO-120 3 

Air Traffic Resource Management Program ATX-100/ATX-400 2 

Air Traffic Control System Command Center (ATCSCC) ATO-200 9 

FAA Regional Air Traffic Division Managers 

 AAL-500 Anchorage 1 

 ACE-500 Kansas City 1 

 AEA-500 New York 1 

 AGL-500 Chicago 1 

 ANE-500 Boston 1 

 ANM-500 Seattle 1 

 ASO-500 Atlanta 1 

 ASW-500 Dallas/Fort Worth 1 

 AWP-500 Los Angeles 1 

Albuquerque ARTCC 2 

Atlanta ARTCC 3 

Boston ARTCC 3 

Honolulu ARTCC 3 

Houston ARTCC 3 

Jacksonville ARTCC 3 

Los Angeles ARTCC 2 

Memphis ARTCC 1 

Miami ARTCC 3 

New York ARTCC 3 

Oakland ARTCC 2 

San Juan ARTCC 3 

Seattle ARTCC 2 

Washington ARTCC 2 

AMA-500, Oklahoma City, OK 1 

AIA-100/AIA-200 3 

AOP-4 1 

APA-300 3 

ARW-100/ARW-200 2 

Houston AIFSS 3 

Miami (QAS) AIFSS 2 

New York AIFSS 1 

San Juan AIFSS 2 

U.S. COAST GUARD 

Commandant, USCG Headquarters (G-OPN-1) 2 
M-5 

Commandant, USCG (G-OPF) 1 

Commander, Atlantic Area, USCG 2 

Commander, Pacific Area, USCG 2 

Commander, Maintenance and Logistics Command Atlantic 2 

Commander, Maintenance and Logistics Command Pacific 1 

Commander, First Coast Guard District 1 

Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District 2 

Commander, Seventh Coast Guard District 3 

Commander, Eighth Coast Guard District 3 

Commander, Ninth Coast Guard District 1 

Commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District 1 

Commander, Thirteenth Coast Guard District 1 

Commander, Fourteenth Coast Guard District 2 

Commander, Seventeenth Coast Guard District 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Aquadilla, PR 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Atlantic City, NJ 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Cape Cod, MA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Clearwater, FL 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Corpus Christi, TX 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Elizabeth City, NC 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Houston, TX 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Kapolei, HI 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Kodiak, AK 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Los Angeles, CA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, McClellan AFB, CA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, McKinleyville, CA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Mt. Clemens, MI 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, New Orleans, LA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, North Bend, OR 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Opa Locka, FL 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Port Angeles, WA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, San Diego, CA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, San Francisco, CA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Savannah, GA 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Sitka, AK 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Traverse City, MI 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Air Station, Warrenton, OR 1 

Commanding Officer, USCG Reserve Training Center 1 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

World Agriculture Outlook Board 1 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 

Office of Emergency Management 1 

Office of Biological and Environmental Research 1 
M-6 

DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR 

Bureau of Reclamation, Office of Liaison Engineering and Research 1 

DEPARTMENT OF STATE 

Office of Advanced Technology 1 

NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION 

Director, Meteorology Program 1 

Director, Atmospheric Sciences Division 1 

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION 

Goddard Space Flight Center, Code 912 1 

Director, Atmospheric Sciences Division 1 

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY/ 

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY 

FEMA, Mitigation Directorate 2 

FEMA Region I 1 

FEMA Region IV 2 

FEMA Region IX 20 

OTHER U.S. 

Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress 1 

University of Chicago Library, The Joseph Regenstein Library 1 

South Florida Water Management District 1 

Natural Hazards Research and Applications Information Center 1 

Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Colorado State University 1 

GTE Government Systems 1 

Larkin Associates 1 

Nash C. Roberts, Jr. Consultants, New Orleans, LA 1 

Hurricane and Weather Specialists, Inc., Valrico, FL 1 

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA 

Meteorological Operations Division, Canadian Meteorological Centre (AES), Dorval, QU 1 

Officer in Charge, METOC Centre, Maritime Command Headquarters, Halifax, NS 1 

Base Meteorological Officer, CFB Greenwood, NS 1 

Atmospheric Environment Service, Downsview, ON 1 

Transport Canada, Monkton ACC 2 

UNITED KINGDOM 
M-7 

Assistant Director, Head of Defense Services, Meteorological Office 1 

MICRONESIA 

Department of Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense, Guam 2 

Emergency Management Offices: 

 - Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Saipan 1 

 - Republic of Palau, Koror 1 

 - Republic of the Marshall Islands, Majuro 1 

 - Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Pohnpei State, Kolonia 1 

 - Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Yap State, Colonia 1 

 - Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Chuuk State, Weno Island 1 

 - Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kosrae State, Tofol 1