Improving weather forecasts through social media

In December 2014, a powerful storm fueled by tropical moisture called the "Pineapple Express" dumped 3-6 inches of rain up and down the West Coast. On that rainy morning, TechKnow visited the Los Angeles chapter of the National Weather Service's severe weather team to see how they were tracking the storm in real time. The team uses short range and long range numerical models, satellite, radar, and county alert systems. 

According to the Science and Operations Officer on duty, the ability to accurately predict and alert the public of the intensity of the heavy rainfall and strong winds, was made easier not only through new and improved satellite & radar, but through social media. 

“When the flash flood warning was issued for Los Angeles County…Twitter pretty much lit up,” reported Mark Jackson, NOAA meteorologist in charge.  He says social media is a great way to get information and warnings out because so many people rely on Twitter and Facebook for quickly developing stories, especially during this unique event where Southern California was hit with, hashtag #LArain

Emergency centers throughout the region posted up to the minute forecasts and warnings issued via the National Weather Service and that helped spread the word.  According to Jackson, getting the most up to date information out to people potentially impacted by a severe weather event used to be a challenge, but social media is a valuable tool that has enhanced forecasters ability to communicate with the public and adds a sense of calm during the storm. 

Follow the National Weather Service on Facebook and Twitter 

Here are some behind the scenes photos from the forecast office during the winter storm