Land-based Observations

Land-based surface observations of hurricanes are invaluable sources of real-time information at both inland and coastal locations. Land-based observations of pressure and wind can show how quickly a tropical cyclone decays as it moves onshore. Rainfall reports show where significant rainfall is occurring and provide the basis for flood alerts. During a hurricane’s landfall, the NOAA Hurricane Research Division (HRD) will also compare and verify data from reconnaissance aircraft to data transmitted in real-time from weather stations erected near or at the coast. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) also uses these data to evaluate conditions at landfall and to verify forecasts.

Rain shaft behind a Doppler Radar at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, OK. Photo courtesy of Tracy L. McCormick.

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