Meteorological Data Needs Sample Clauses

Meteorological Data Needs. Measuring Precipitation As sated above, people and their property are the primary concern when settings sites and sensors for flood management and planning. To monitor the potential for road flooding, real-time precipitation gauges should be placed near roads with reoccurring drainage problems. These gauges help local roads department staff ensure safe passage of vehicular traffic. The National Weather Service (NWS), which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is widely known as the Federal agency in charge of weather forecasting and warning for the Nation. Many people, however, are not aware that the NWS also is charged by law with the responsibility for issuing river forecasts and flood warnings. The NWS uses many types of data when developing its flood forecasts, but primarily uses precipitation and stream flow data – data that is often provided by local agencies such as the County. In general, the management and planning (including flood forecasting) required an even distribution of real-time rain gauges thought a region, supplemented by specific gauges in key locations. The following table outlines the recommended minimum rain gauge densities in order to ensure an even aerial distribution of rain gauges: Land Use Minimum densities per station (area in mi2 per station) Urban Areas (Cities, CSDs, CSAs, etc.) 50 Note that these rain gauge density recommendations are the same as for water resources planning. It is also important to have rain gauges at key locations in a region. Key locations include any watershed(s) that also contains flood control facilities such as reservoirs, large-scale detention and retention basins, or other structures that control the natural flow of storm water. Key locations also contain urbanized areas. The selection of key rain gauge locations are made on a case-by-case basis, as needs become apparent. Areas and watersheds that regularly flood should have real-time rain gauges in service.