NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

WAKEFIELD VA

FIRE WEATHER OPERATING PLAN

JUNE 30, 2003

VERSION 1.6

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I_____Introduction

 II ____User

 III____Directory

1.      Mailing Address

2.      Contacts

3.      Telephone Numbers

4.      E-Mail Addresses

5.      National Weather Service Regional Contacts

6.      Web Site

IV____Fire_Weather_Forecast_Areas

V ____Fire_Weather_Seasons

VI  ___Forecast_Methodology_and_Philoso phy

VII_ __Fire_Weather_Watches_and_Red_Flag Warnings

VIII___Fire_Weather_Forecast_Products

1.      Daily Fire Weather Forecast

A.     Weather Parameters included in the Daily Forecast

B.     Additional Weather Parameters in the Post-Transitional Daily Fire Weather Forecast

C.    Format of the Daily Fire Weather Forecast

2.      Update Criteria For the Daily Forecast

3.      Spot Forecasts

A.  Requesting A Spot Forecast

4.      NFDRS FWM Forecasts

IX___Other_NWS_Products

1.      Public Zone Forecasts

2.      Special Weather Statements

3.      Wind Advisory and High Wind Warning

4.      Short Term Forecasts

5.      Public Information Statements

6.      Revised Digital Forecast

X___Special_Fire_Weather_Services

1.      Air Transportable Mobile Unit

2.      Fire Weather Training

3.      Other Special Services

XI___Fire_Weather_Observations

1.      Fire Weather Observation Stations

2.      Quality Control, Inspection and Training

3.      Transmission of Fire Weather Observations

4.      Fire Weather Station Supplies and Equipment Maintenance

5.      Severe Weather Reports

XII___Communications

XIII__Appendices

This Plan is an agreement between the Wakefield Virginia National Weather Service Office and the agencies with land and fire management responsibilities to outline weather support for forestry operations in Eastern and Central Virginia as well as the Maryland Eastern Shore and Northeastern North Carolina. This plan incorporates procedures detailed in the National Agreement for Meteorological Services in Support of Agencies with Land Management and Fire Protection Responsibilities, found in APPENDIX_A of this document.

This Operating Plan will be the governing document for fire weather procedures and cooperation between the following agencies:

National Weather Service Forecast Office – Wakefield VA

Virginia Interagency Coordination Center (VICC)

US Dept. of Forestry

Virginia Department of Forestry

US Fish and Wildlife Service

National Park Service

NC Forest Service

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Users shall be defined as any person, group, agency or body, which uses the products and services, provided by the NWS in support of fire operations.

The NWS has been directed by the Executive Branch and Congress to discontinue specialized fire weather services to non-Federal entities (i.e. state, county and local agencies) for non-wildfire activities, including the following:

·        Spot forecast for prescribed burning operations;

·        Spot forecasts for non-fire management activities;

·        Transport and stability forecasts for smoke management;

·        Consultation and liaison for non-wildfire activities;

·        And land management forecasts issued outside federal fire services.

Details can be found in the Federal Register (Vol. 60, No. 128, P. 34969-34970). See APPENDIX_B.

MAILING ADDRESS:

CONTACTS:

Meteorologist in Charge…………………………. .Tony Siebers

Warning Coordination Meteorologist.……….........Bill Sammler

Fire Weather Program Manager..…........………...Brian Hurley

Assistant Fire Weather Program Manager….......James Foster

The Forecast office is staffed, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through the year, including holidays. Forecasters are available for special forecasts or consultation, conditions permitting. No specific forecaster is dedicated to the fire weather products or services. During severe weather situations, forecasters may have to attend to other priorities.  Extra staffing is typically available during administrative hours (8am - 4pm Monday through Friday.)

TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Administrative/Forecast Operations.......................(757) 899 - 2415

(Direct forecast questions to the public forecaster or fire weather program manager)

Severe Weather Reports..........................................(800) 737 - 8624

(Severe weather reports only!)

Fax.............................................................................(757) 899 - 5107

These numbers are unlisted! Please do not release to the Public.

EMAIL ADDRESSES

Tony Siebers.……………….anthony.siebers@noaa.gov

Bill Sammler........…………...william.sammler@noaa.gov

Brian Hurley………………... brian.hurley@noaa.gov

James Foster………….........james.foster@noaa.gov

REGIONAL CONTACTS:

WAKEFIELD VA WEBSITE: http://weather.noaa.gov/akq

·        All fire weather or related products can be accessed by clicking on the “Fire Weather” link from this website.

·        The Fire Weather Operations Plan can be accessed from the Wakefield NWS website: http://weather.noaa.gov/akq/firewx

See APPENDIX_C for surrounding office information.

The Daily Fire Weather Forecast area correlates with the “radar coverage area@ of the WSR 88-D Doppler Radar. The forecastable zones, incorporated in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast as well as the Fire Weather Watch and Red Flag Warning products, mirror the Political County and Independent City jurisdictions, rather than the larger USDA Forest Service regional fire weather zones.

The following is a list of the USDA Forest Service Regional Zone Layouts, which fall with in Wakefield=s area: 

Virginia

§         Zone 1 - Virginia Portion of the Delmarva Peninsula

§         Zone 2 -The Hampton Roads Area

§         Zone 3 - Southeastern VA

§         Zone 4 - The VA Northern and Middle Necks

§         Zone 6 - Richmond and the Tri-cities region.

§         Zone 7 - South Central VA

§         Zone 17 - The Fredricksburg region (Only Caroline County)

§         Zone 18 - Central VA (West of Richmond)

Maryland

§         Zone 1 - Southern Section of Maryland on the Delmarva Peninsula including the Maryland Eastern Shores.

North Carolina

§         Zone 2 – Northeastern North Carolina Coastal Area

§         Zone 3 – Northeastern North Carolina Coastal Plain

The following is a list of County and Independent City Jurisdictions which will fall within Wakefield=s area of responsibility after the transition. 

Refer To APPENDIX_D for a Map Display of Wakefield County Zone Forecast Area.

The following is a list of the US Fish and Wildlife Refuges within NWS Wakefield’s forecast region:

§         James River NWR - Prince George County, VA

§         Great Dismal Swamp NWR – Suffolk and Chesapeake VA as well as Gates, Camden and Pasquotank counties NC

§         Back Bay NWR – Virginia Beach, VA

§         Eastern Shore of Virginia NWR – Northampton County, VA

§         Chincoteague NWR – Accomack County, VA

§         Blackwater NWR – Dorchester County, MD

The Daily Fire Weather forecast as well as spot forecasts are available year round for suppression and fire control. During the spring through fall (March 1 through November 30), there will be two scheduled fire weather forecasts each day: one during the early morning (5:00 - 6:30 am) and the other in the afternoon (3:30 - 4:15 pm). The afternoon version was added in 2002. During the winter months (December 1 through Feb 28), the fire weather forecast in the afternoon will be suspended, however the morning issuance will continue as scheduled. The exception would be during abnormally high fire danger conditions, in which the users may request an afternoon fire weather forecast during the winter months. In the spring and fall, a heightened threat for a fire activity tends to occur. During these predetermined seasons, the user agencies may request an increased amount of fire weather forecasts than during the off seasons. The user agencies have agreed upon the following as the fire weather seasons:

In Virginia 

1.      Spring Season: February 15 through May 15

2.      Fall Season: October 15 through December 15

In Maryland

1.      Spring Season for 2002: February 15 through May 15

2.      Fall Season for 2001: September 15 through December 15

In North Carolina

1.      Spring Season: March 1 through May 31

2.      Fall Season: Late September through the 1^st of December

Unless otherwise specified, forecasts are made to reflect the worst probable weather in terms of fire management, within the fire weather zone during a given time period. For instance, the daytime forecast will attempt to depict the hottest, driest, and windiest weather that is likely to be experienced in the wildland environment of a zone from 7 AM to 7 PM local standard or daylight time. On occasion, this may be different than the general public forecast, which emphasizes prevailing conditions during the forecast period and is often aimed at the more populated areas in a given region.

Though the routine forecast attempts to depict a worst-case fire weather scenario for a given period, it in no way reflects all the local variations in weather that can have an adverse effect on fire behavior within a zone.  Fire Control Officers should be familiar with typical weather variations across their district or forest, such as those associated with land versus sea interaction, changes in elevation, and vegetation.  The impact of seabreezes or mountain/ valley winds should also be recognized.  A spot forecast should be requested whenever local effects are suspected of creating difficult fire management conditions.

Red Flag conditions indicate a potential for severe fire danger and wildfires. In Virginia, Fire Control Managers have determined that the greatest weather threat to operations is the passage of a dry cold front. Dry cold fronts typically cause lower humidity levels and produce shifting and increasing winds. Our users have agreed upon the following conditions for Red Flag Criteria:

In Virginia

10 hour fuel moistures at or below 7% **

and

Sustained winds of 35+ mph.

 or

Sustained Surface winds of 25 mph, Relative humidity less than 30 %, and 10 hour fuel moistures at or below 7%**

**VICC will supply the Fuel Moisture information. Thus if critical meteorological conditions noted above are expected, a coordination call will be placed to the VICC (Virginia Interagency Coordination Center) before a watch or warning is issued.

In Maryland

10 hour fuel moistures at or below 10% ***

and

Sustained surface winds of 25 mph

and

Relative Humidity less than 30%

***Maryland DNR will supply the Fuel moisture information. When critical meteorological conditions highlighted above are expected, a coordination call will be placed to the Eastern Region Maryland DNR.

In North Carolina

Relative Humidity of 25 percent or less

and

Sustained Winds of 20 mph and/or gusts to 30 mph or greater

and

Critical Fuel moistures – 10 hour fuel moisture less than 10%

If the first two criteria are met, the fire weather forecaster will consult with either the US Forest Service in North Carolina or the NC Forest Service before issuing the watch or warning.

A Fire Weather Watch may be issued between 12 and 72 hours in advance of the expected onset of the conditions. A watch will remain in effect until the forecaster determines that either the Red Flag Event will not develop or that the Watch should be upgraded to a Warning.

A Red Flag Warning will be issued for impending Red Flag conditions or immediately when Red Flag conditions are occurring. The warning period is less than 24 hours. For North Carolina Zones the Red Flag Warning may or may not incorporate a Blow-Up alert (see below).

A Blow Up Alert will be issued by the North Carolina State Division of Forest Resources whenever existing high fire danger is coupled with specific meteorological conditions. Those conditions are the following: 1) sufficient fuels are available as denoted by a high Build –Up Index, 2) dangerous fine fuel moistures which are prompted by low relative humidities, 3) atmospheric instability, and 4) an adverse wind profile is observed or imminent.

A Blow-Up Alert underscores the potential for explosive fire conditions in all or part of the state. Once the alert has been issued it will remain in effect until one full day after the last adverse wind profile has been detected, precipitation occurs, or a significant change in the weather pattern occurs. 

When a Red Flag Warning or Fire Weather Watch is issued, a headline will be placed in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast. In addition a Red Flag Warning/ Fire Weather Watch product will be issued (see below).

The  Red Flag Warning/Fire Weather Watch (WBCRFWAKQ) product is the formal notification for the issuance of a Red Flag Warning or Fire Weather Watch. This product lists the zones included in the Watch and/or Warning as well as gives description of the timing and conditions, which can be expected. This product will also be used to cancel a Watch or Warning. Refer to APPENDIX_E for an example.

Daily Fire Weather Forecast

The two Daily Fire Weather Forecasts are general forecasts which are used for the day-to-day planning of land management operation, and for determining general weather trends that might impact fire behavior. The Daily Fire Weather Forecasts provide a detailed prediction of elements for three specific time periods (four periods with the afternoon forecast), a general 3 to 7 day forecast, and an 8 to 14 day extended outlook for a zone. The morning forecast, to be disseminated NLT 6:30 AM, consists of three periods: “Today” (valid from issuance through 7 PM local time), “Tonight” (7 PM to 7 AM)”, and “Tomorrow” (7 AM to 7 PM). The afternoon version, to be sent NLT 4:00 pm, consists of four periods: “Tonight” (valid from issuance through 7 AM local time), “Tomorrow” (7 AM to 7 PM), “Tomorrow Night” (7 PM to 7 AM), and the “Following Day” (7 AM to 7 PM).  Should an evening group be placed in the forecast, it will refer to the period from 5 PM to 10 PM LST.

Weather Parameters included in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast

·        Cloud Cover – This is an indication of the sky condition such as Partly Cloudy.

·        Chance of Precipitation (POP) - The probability of measurable precipitation (0.01 inches or more) during the forecast period.  This will be rounded to the nearest 10%. Note: Drizzle and snow flurries are not considered measurable precipitation and thus will not be given a probability.

·        Precipitation Type – A description of the type of precipitation that can be expected such as Rain, Thunderstorms, Snow, etc.

·        Temperature – The free air dry-bulb temperature as measured at a standard 4.5 ft above the ground level. 

Nighttime periods – minimum temperature forecast

Daytime periods – maximum temperature forecast

·        Surface Winds (AM/PM Speed and Direction) – Surface wind speed and direction represent a one-minute average at 20 feet above the ground or 20 ft above the vegetative cover.  Wind gusts, which are rapid fluctuations in wind speed of usually less than 30 seconds in duration, are indicated in the forecast if gustiness is expected.  Forecasts for highest probable gusts will be preceded by G. Highlights will be made to changes in direction and speed over the state.

·        Precipitation Amount  – The amount is forecast when the Precipitation Duration is forecasted. Amounts will be given to the nearest hundredth of an inch (only forecast when the probability of measurable precipitation is 50% or greater).

·        Precipitation Duration – Forecast when the probability of measurable precipitation is greater than or equal to 50%. It is an estimated amount of rain (or the liquid equivalent of frozen precipitation) and duration will be included in the forecast. This will be estimated in hours. The forecast will indicate single numbers or a range depending on the weather situation.  A range of 0-1 indicates a duration forecast of one hour or less.

·        Relative Humidity – Humidity is computed in percent at the standard level of 4.5 feet above the ground for a given fire weather zone. 

Nighttime periods – maximum relative humidity forecast

Daytime periods – minimum relative humidity forecast

Note: The lowest average humidity typically occurs during the warmest part of the day.  However if it is expected to occur at a different time of day, this will be noted in the “Remarks” portion of the forecast.

·        Haines Index – This Index infers the stability of the atmosphere. For Wakefield’s area, which is considered a "low elevation", it is calculated by comparing the atmospheric temperature at 950mb and 850mb as well as taking into account the moisture levels (dewpoint depression) at 950mb.

Values of: 2 or 3 indicate a very low potential for fire growth*.

4 indicates a low potential potential for fire growth*.

5 indicates a moderate potential for fire growth*.

6 Indicates a high potential for large fire growth*.

* On the National Level, Haines Index values of 5 or 6 can serve as an alert that fires (prescribed burns) may get out of control. However, regional studies have shown that for some areas, like North Carolina, a Haines Index of 4 represents a relatively high potential for fire growth. Another note: in the absence of strong winds, fire growth will be primarily "plume dominated" with crowning and spotting on all sides. When wind speeds become greater than 20 mph, a higher Haines Index would represent an increased threat for wind-driven wildfires.

·        LAL (Lightning Frequency Level) – A number value, which is used to describe the expected convective development for that day.  Refer to APPENDIX_F3 further detail of the LAL.

·        Mixing Height/Disp. – Mixing height is defined as the atmospheric limit above which vigorous vertical mixing does not take place.  The mixing height gives the potential for the atmosphere to disperse smoke.  In general, with a forecast mixing height of 500 m (1640 ft) or less, the fire control officer should consider moving a scheduled prescribed burn to a different day or consult the Forecast office.  Upper air sounding data is available between 8 AM and 9 AM EST, and can provide a better indication of mixing height than the daily fire weather forecast.  Forecast mixing heights will be a maximum value for the day in feet. This value is also adjusted for the general terrain elevation.  (To convert mixing heights from feet to meters, multiply by 0.305.)

Dispersion Descriptor – Smoke dispersion gives a general indication of the state of the atmosphere with respect to its ability to disperse smoke from controlled/ prescribed fire operations. These predictions are based on broad scale weather patterns and are generally for large geographical areas. A spot forecast is recommended for critical operations that might involve smoke drift towards a populated area.

A Smoke dispersion outlook will be included in the nighttime forecasts in lieu of the mixing height. See APPENDIX_F2 for the Nighttime Dispersion Categories.

Note: When widespread precipitation and high relative humidities are expected to occur during the forecast period, no dispersion forecasts will be issued for that period.

·        Transport Winds (Direction and Speed) – Defined as the average wind direction and speed from the surface to the top of the mixing layer.  Direction of the transport wind (where the wind is blowing from) and speed will be given. The speed is given in miles an hour. To convert a wind speed from miles per hour to meters per second, multiply it by 590.8.

·        Ventilation Rate – A multiplication of the mixing heights and transport winds.  Refer to APPENDIX_F4 for a correlation between the Ventilation and the Burn Category

·        Adverse Wind Speed Profiles and Stability (North Carolina Zones only, for the morning FWF only, and for the first period (“Today”) forecast only)  - Among the North Carolina users, it is recognized that the profile of wind speed with altitude on active fire days is an important factor in fire behavior. Certain profiles of wind speed marked by decreasing speed above a wind maximum or jet within 1500 ft of the surface can cause fires to behave erratically when combined with a rapid decrease in air temperature with altitude on the order of 5.5 deg. F per 1000 ft. This is a common occurrence on sunny afternoons. APPENDIX_G1 contains these types of profiles that contribute toward adverse fire behavior.

During the spring season, on days in which fire activity is expected to be at or above normal, an analysis of the wind will be included in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast. This analysis will state whether the profile is Favorable, Questionable, or Unfavorable for fire control. Refer to APPENDIX_G2 for Definitions of the Wind profiles. If unfavorable, a profile type from APPENDIX_G1 will be used to describe the wind profile along with detailed information on maximum wind speed, direction, and height AGL. Headlines and special Fire Weather Updates may also be used to highlight this phenomenon. If Questionable, additional analysis will be done and a forecast update message will be sent when it is determined whether the profile is Favorable or Unfavorable.  This will usually be within one to two hours of the forecast issuance time.

·        Note: A change to the forecast is that the Burn Category for North Carolina Zones is no loner included in the forecast. For Reference, the Burn Category is a product of the forecast maximum afternoon mixing height (in ft above ground level) and average transport wind (in MPH).  See Appendix_E1 for the Daytime Burn Categories.

Note: At this time the Smoke Dispersion Index is not included in the forecast. However it is expected to be included in the future. This is numerical index that was developed by Lavdas. This index takes into account the stability of the atmosphere through the K Index, Cloud Cover, ceiling heights and ventilation Rate.  Refer to APPENDIX_F5 for a chart. 

Format Of the Daily Fire Weather Forecast

The Daily Fire Weather Forecast is in a tabular layout that follows the general format listed below:

1.      Headline – This will highlight Red Flag Warning/Fire Weather Watch or emphasize a significant event or change.

2.      Synopsis – This is a brief description of weather systems affecting the area through the forecast period. The movement of significant weather features, such as strong, dry -cold fronts should be highlighted in this section.

3.      General Forecast broken into County/Independent City groupings will include Headline (if a Watch or Warning is in effect), Cloud Amount, POP, Precipitation Type, Temperature, Wind Direction, Wind Speed, Precipitation Amount, Precipitation Duration, Lightning Frequency, Relative Humidity, Mixing Height/Disp., Haines Index, Transport Winds (Direction and Speed), Ventilation, Burn-Off Temperature, and Adverse Wind Speed Profiles and Stability (Spring Season only for NC users).

4.      Three to Seven day forecast, including winds

5.      Eight to 14 day outlook

See APPENDIX_H.1   for an example.

Update Criteria for the Daily Forecast

The Fire Weather Forecaster will maintain a weather watch to ensure that the forecast remains accurate.  When unexpected changes occur or are forecast to occur which significantly deviate from the previous forecast, the forecast will be updated. The decision to update, to an extent, is at forecaster discretion. However for the critical elements of relative humidity, wind velocity and wind profile, the forecast will be updated by the following guidelines.

Relative Humidity

·        for 40% or less  - plus or minus 5%

·        for 40 % to 70% - plus or minus 10%

·        above 70% - plus or minus 15%

Wind Velocity

·        Any speed – plus or minus 5 mph

·        Any direction - plus or minus 45 degrees

Wind Profile (North Carolina Zones Only) – If a Questionable wind profile is forecast, an update will be issued once the actual profile can be reevaluated for a Favorable or Unfavorable profile. This may be done using the Doppler 88-D wind information or the 12Z soundings.

Other elements that the forecaster may update include: timing of the cold front, passage of a squall line, probability of precipitation and accumulation amount.

If an update is needed, for Virginia counties, the forecaster will call VICC and in North Carolina, NC Forest Service. 

Spot Forecasts

Spot Forecasts are special, non-routine forecasts prepared upon request from user agencies that need site-specific forecasts for: 1) controlling the spread of wildfire; 2) planning and managing prescribed fires; or 3) other specialized forest management activities.

Spot Forecast for wildfires and other emergency situations affecting life or property are available 24 hours a day from any requesting agency whether locally, state or federally funded, while Spot Forecasts for prescribed burns are only available to federally funded agencies.  The response time for a prescribed burn spot forecast may be delayed due to higher priority duties of the NWS forecaster. In addition to any or all of the forecast parameters listed in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast Product, the Spot Forecast may include inversion height, inversion onset and burn-off times as well as wind profile information.  

Requesting a Spot Forecast

In order to provide a more accurate and useful Spot Forecast, timely weather observations from the site MUST be given to the forecaster.  At the minimum, the observation from the fire site should include temperature, humidity or wet bulb temperature, and wind speed and direction (one-minute average).  Wind measurements are assumed to be at eye-level using a hand held anemometer unless otherwise indicated.  The Fire Weather Spot Forecast Request Form, WS Form D-1, indicates the necessary weather information. See APPENDIX_I for a copy of this form. The actual Spot Forecast request can be made either by using the spot forecast request link provided on the NWS Wakefield Fire Weather page (http://weather.noaa.gov/akq), or by calling the NWS.

For fires involving thousands of acres, observations should be taken from more than one site. This will enable the forecaster to better determine the effects of the fire on local weather patterns. 144 For prescribed burns, a weather observation should be taken and sent to the forecaster about two hours before ignition.  Another observation should be taken during the fire and relayed to the NWS so that the forecaster can ensure that the forecast is still reasonable.  This second observation may be transmitted to the NWS on the WS D-1 form or simply relayed by phone.

The fire location and estimated size of the project MUST be included with your Spot Forecast request.  Estimate the location by direction and range from well-known points in the area.  It is of the utmost importance for the forecaster to know the location of the fire site relative to the significant geographical features (the Atlantic Coast, a river, etc.)  Also, include a contact name as well as the phone number.

If weather conditions develop that are not forecast and threaten the success of operations at the fire, notify the forecaster immediately.  Furthermore, any feedback concerning the accuracy of the Spot Forecast (positive or negative) will assist the forecaster in subsequent forecasts for the same or similar locations. 

NFDRS FWM Forecasts

FWM Forecasts are site specific/or trend forecasts for a fire weather observation site/group of sites. The forecasts are for 18Z or 1300 EST (1400 EDT) for the next day. These forecasts are entered in the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) and are used to calculate the predicted fire danger indices for the next day.  Refer to APPENDIX_J for a sample forecast.

In order for the NWS to do a forecast, the current 1300 EST (1400 EDT) observation must be edited in WIMS to ensure that the observation is included in the Eastern Region Collective.  If the current observation is not in the Collective, than a forecast will not be done for that station.  * For those locations receiving a FWM forecast, If you do perform the manual edit, but do not receive a forecast for that day, contact the NWS. 

Types of an FWM Forecast

1.      Point Forecasts – forecast for an individual NFDRS observation point.

2.      Trend Forecast – Forecast an average trend of a group of observation points within a district or zone.

(Note: Until trends can be ascertained between the various fire weather observation sites, AKQ will only do Point Forecasts.) 

Parameters Included In the FWM Forecast

·      Point Forecasts

1.                  (WX) State of Weather (1300 LST Next Day)

2.                  (T) Temperature  (1300 LST Next Day)

3.                   (RH) Relative Humidity (1300 LST Next Day)

4.                  (AL) LAL (1300 LST – 2300 LST That Day)

5.                  (TL) LAL (2300 LST – 2300 LST Next Day)

6.                   Wind Direction (1300 LST Next Day)

7.                   Wind Speed (1300 LST Next Day)

8.                  Max Temperature (1300 LST through 1300 LST Next Day)

9.                   Min Temperature (1300 LST through 1300 LST Next Day)

10.              Max RH (1300 LST through 1300 LST Next Day)

11.              Min RH (1300 LST through 1300 LST Next Day)

12.              (PD1) Precipitation Duration (1300 LST – 0500 LST)

13.              (PD2) Precipitation Duration (0500 LST – 1300 LST)

14.               Wed Flag – a “Y” or “N” response. Refers to the wetness of fuels at the Next day observation time. A “Y” indicates that the fuels will definitely be wet at the 1300 LST observation.

·        Trend Forecasts

1.                  (WX) (Same as Point Forecast)

2.                  T  (24 hour temp change in Deg F (+ or -)

3.                  H (24 hour RH change in percent (+ or -)

4.                  AL (Same as Point Forecast)

5.                  TL (Same as Point Forecast)

6.                  WS (24 hours wind speed change in mph (+ or -)

7.                  PD1 (Same as Point Forecast)

8.                  PD2 (Same as Point Forecast)

9.                  Wet Flag (Same as Point Forecast)

Revised Digital Forecast (RDF)

Over the past couple of years, the RDF has quickly become one of the more utilized fire weather products. The RDF is a matrix format forecast that displays specific weather parameters in a 3 and 12-hour intervals for the first 48 hours and then in a 12-hour interval for days 3 through 7. The weather elements which are included in the forecast are: 12 hour POP, 12 hour QPF, Max QPF, 12 hour Snowfall, Max/Min Temperatures, average 3-hour temperature, average 3-hour dew point, average 3-hour Relative Humidity, average 3-hour Wind Direction, average 3-hour Wind Speed, average 3-hour Cloud Cover, 3-hour Precipitation type (and probability), 3 hour Thunderstorm probability.   For a more detailed explanation of how to interpret the RDF, Refer to the site http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/rnk/rdfexplained.htm

Public Zone Forecasts (ZFP)

Forecasts for sky condition, temperatures, winds and precipitation are prepared for the general public and are grouped by county jurisdictions.  For the most part, the forecasts in the public zones will be similar to the information in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast. The public zone forecast includes a detailed 48-hour forecast and a more general 3 to 7 day forecast.

Special Weather Statements (SPS)

Special Weather Statements are focused for the public interests; however fire weather users may find the information presented in this product useful for planning purposes.  Special Weather Statements discuss significant weather events that are occurring or are expected to occur during the forecast period.  These statements can provide more detail about various types of weather as well as any watches or advisories that may significantly impact fire weather operations. The issuance of a Special Weather Statement is at the forecaster’s discretion. 

Wind Advisory and High Wind Warning (NPW)

When windy conditions are expected in the absence of convective weather, a Wind Advisory or High Wind Warning will be issued.  These products are also geared for the public, but the conditions forecasted will still have an impact on fire weather operations.  Typically, the conditions that warrant the issuance of either one of these products occurs during the winter and spring months, after a passage of a strong cold front. 

A Wind Advisory is issued when sustained wind speeds of 31 to 39 mph (27 to 34 knots) are expected to occur for longer than an hour, or when wind gusts between 46 and 57 mph (40 to 49 knots) are forecasted for any duration. 

A High Wind Warning is issued when sustained wind speeds of 40 mph (35 knots) or greater are expected for a duration of an hour or more, or for winds of 58 mph (50 knots) of any duration.

Short Term Forecasts (NOW)

Short Term Forecasts are issued by the NWS as needed.  These brief forecasts give more detail to the public zone forecast, such as the location and movement of a thunderstorm. 

Public Information Statement (PNS)

This product can be used to heighten the public’s awareness of an upcoming weather event.

As per agreement between the NWS Wakefield and the VICC (Virginia Interagency Coordination Center), if during a prolonged dry period, conditions warrant the need to heighten the public’s awareness for fire danger, NWS Wakefield will issue a PNS highlighting the area of concern and recommended precautions.  This statement will only be issued at the request of VICC. 

Special meteorological services are these requiring a meteorologist to be away from the Forecast Office and /or in non-emergency situations, to be on overtime.  Special services include the Advanced Meteorological Unit Transportable Mobile Unit (ATMU) and an Incident Meteorologist (IMET) as well as other on-site meteorological services, such as weather observer training, weather station visitations and training requested by other user agencies.

User agencies are responsible for paying overtime, travel and per diem cost for special services.  Costs to be recovered from the user are calculated on the basis of expense reports submitted by the Forecast Office to NWS Eastern Region Headquarters.  Billing of the user agencies is handled by the appropriate NWS administrative division based on the expense report. Bills include a statement of services rendered, as well as the dates and locations of services provided. 

Costs for special services pertaining to interagency training (i.e. ATMU) should be handled by cooperative agreement among the agencies involved with the specific training objective.

Air Transportable Mobile Unit

The ATMU is a modularized, mobile system of equipment used by an IMET for data collection and product preparation.  The ATMU is a national resource. Twenty-five ATMU’s are cached across the country, mainly in the Western US. The CASHE site that supports North Carolina and Virginia is in London, KY, where 2 ATMU units are maintained. The CASHE site in Grand Rapids, MI supports Maryland.  The ATMU is available upon request for duty at an incident fire, a critical prescribed burn, or other weather-sensitive incident in Virginia, Maryland or North Carolina.

Each ATMU consists of two (2) modules. The first module contains a theodolite with tripod and a calculator for determining the winds aloft, 2 belt weather kits, weather balloons, a nozzle and regulator for a helium tank, office supplies and miscellaneous expendables. It is 27.6 cubic feet and weighs 201 pounds. The second module, know as the computer module, contains a laptop computer with a satellite docking station and satellite dish for downlinking weather data and a printer. It is 5 cubic feet and weighs 55 pounds. A separate module, the microREMS, is a self-contained portable weather station with instruments for measuring temperature, dew point and wind. The microREMS is powered by a solar panel and battery; it is 8.2 cubic feet and weighs about 125 pounds.

For Agencies in North Carolina and Virginia, requests for an ATMU, microREMS, and IMET should be made through the US Forest Service Region 8 Dispatch. For Maryland Users, the Requests should be routed through the US Forest Service Region 9. The Fire Weather Program Leader or the Meteorologist-in-Charge at the Wakefield Forecast Office should be made aware of the need for these services.  Typically, an IMET nearest to the incident will be deployed.  (Note:  Presently, the Wakefield Office does not have a certified IMET on site.  Thus, the IMET would likely come from one of the surrounding offices.  The USDA FS Regions should have a list of available and certified IMET’s.) Also, during times of limited resources, the IMET may come from another area of the country.

Individuals making the requests should provide the following information:

1.      Name of the fire or incident

2.      Location of the fire or incident

3.      Directions to the place where the meteorologist is to report

4.      Name of the Incident Commander (IC) and the Fire Behavior Analysts (FBA) or  Planning Section Chief (PSC)

The requesting agency is responsible for coordinating transportation of the ATMU and meteorologist to and from the incident. The requesting agency is also responsible for any storage of the unit while in transit, shelter for the IMET and unit at the site, provisions for priority telephone access during certain short periods each day, 120V AC electrical power, and making space for the helium tank.  A sheltered work area must be provided and be protected from excessive dust, and heated or cooled sufficiently to allow the equipment to function effectively.  The area needed is approximately 50 square feet in size and must be free from standing water or condensation.  A chair and table are also required.

Upon arrival at the incident, the IMET meteorologist will:

1.      Based on information from the initial contact with the Forecast Office, brief the FBA, PSC and IC on the current and expected weather as it pertains to the fire.

2.      Establish a schedule with the IC and FBA for written forecasts and formal briefings.

3.      Request a briefing of the fire situation and potential behavior problems from the FBA.  As time and resources permit, incident management should arrange for an areal inspection trip for the meteorologist, and should make sure current fireline maps are provided to him/her. If possible, the meteorologist should be assigned a radio with a fireline frequency.

4.      In cooperation with the FBA and PSC, the meteorologist will arrange for a schedule of observations from key points around the fire and from nearby lookouts and fire danger rating stations.  On large incident fires, and some personnel (at least two) should be permanently assigned to this duty.  On smaller fires, this information is provided by Division supervisors equipped with belt weather kits.

Fire Weather Training

NWS Fire Weather Meteorologists are available to assist fire control agencies with training at fire behavior school and other weather related courses. Travel costs and any necessary overtime are paid for by the User agency. Requests for assistance should be forwarded to the Meteorologist–in–Charge at the NWS Wakefield Forecast Office by written letter.

Other Special Services

Other Special Services include weather station visitations requested by user agencies, weather observer training, and course development work.  These activities would typically be conducted at user agency facilities.

Fire Weather Observation Stations

Fire weather observation stations provide specialized weather observations for fire weather forecasts, wildfire control suppression, and various other land management operations. These stations may be either manned sites operated by fire control agencies, or unmanned stations such as RAWS (Remote Automatic Weather Station). All observation stations are assigned a 6-digit identifier. The first two digits indicate the state (10 for Maryland, 44 for Virginia and 31 for North Carolina). The second two indicate the county where the station is located. The last two digits are assigned consecutively with each new station that comes online.  The NWS Wakefield Fire Weather Program Leader should be contacted for assignment of the 6-digit identification number to stations within Wakefield’s forecast area. Observation times are normally 1300 EST (1400 EDT) for manned sites.

Quality Control, Inspection and Training 

The Fire Weather Program is a cooperative effort between the National Weather Service and federal, state, local, and private control interests involved in the management of timber and grassland. Wildfires pose a serious threat to these lands. Accurate and timely weather information is one of the most important tools available to the land manager.

Observations are the most important single effort the control agencies put into the Fire Weather Program. Potential fire danger is derived from these observations. The Fire Danger Rating System is the guidance tool that, together with the weather forecast, is used to make a variety of management decisions. It is important that observers be well trained and informed of the necessity for accurate, timely, and representative observations. The fire control agencies are responsible for training, inspection, and quality control of observational sites and data at their stations. The NWS Fire Weather Meteorologist will assist when requested and when resources are available.

Transmission of Fire Weather Observations

Fire control agencies should transmit their Fire Weather Observations as soon as possible using normal communications links. For the US Forest Service, National Park Service and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, transmission is usually done via WIMS (Weather Information Management System). The North Carolina State Division of Forest Resources normally transmits the observation via an IBM-PC network. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources uses an FTS network to access the observations.

Fire Weather Station Supplies and Equipment Maintenance

Anemometer oil, hygrothermograph charts, psychometric wicking, ink, and other supplies needed for taking observations should be provided by the fire control agency. The National Weather Service can furnish selected forms and relative humidity tables.

The fire control agency is responsible for providing normal periodic maintenance of all equipment at their fire weather stations.

Severe Weather Reports

Severe weather reports are extremely important and helpful to forecasters at the National Weather Service. Our most important responsibility is to warn the public of impending weather hazards. Very little information is available from remote locations in Maryland, North Carolina, and Virginia.  Typically, these areas coincide with the areas of concern by land management and fire control agencies.

If severe weather is occurring, please relay the information immediately to the National Weather Service forecasters so they can promptly warn the general public. Call in reports toll free to the Wakefield Forecast Office at 1-800-737-8624. This number is unlisted and for severe weather reporting only.

The National Service will gladly provide free training about severe weather to individuals interested in helping us with this task. The group of people the NWS trains to report severe weather is known as SKYWARN.

What to report:

·        Tornadoes, Funnel Clouds and Waterspouts

·        Winds over 55 mph and/or wind damage

·        Wind damage includes large limbs and branches down, 1 or more trees downed, as well as any structural damage to buildings.

·        Hail – ¾ of an inch (the size of a dime) or larger

·        River flooding or flash flooding of creeks.

·        Any ice accumulation

If damage is discovered a couple of days after the storm, the information is still need for verification purposes and for “Storm Data,” a publication issued by the NWS which keeps a historical record by state of severe weather occurrences. The information also allows the forecaster to assess previous storms and improve detection probability and forecast techniques for future events. 

The states of North Carolina and Virginia use WIMS (Weather Information Management System) as their primary means for transmitting observations and receiving fire weather information. The routine fire weather forecast is transmitted by the National Weather Service via AWIPS (Advanced Weather Information Processing System) through a WAN (Wide Area Network). This is nationally routed into WIMS via this gateway. 

Fire Weather Forecast Users in Maryland use the Internet as their primary mode to receive the forecast while North Carolina and Virginia users use this as a secondary means of receiving the forecast. The Wakefield homepage has links to the Daily Fire Weather Forecasts as well as the Fire Weather Watch/Red Flag Warning Product from the Wakefield, Raleigh, Blacksburg, Morehead City, Sterling, and Mount Holly offices.  In addition to the Daily Fire Weather Forecast, the website also has links to various drought indices as well as other Fire Weather related sites.

If the forecasts are unavailable via the WIMS network as well as through Internet, the forecast may be faxed or e-mailed to predetermined distributing agencies.  In Virginia the information will be funneled to VICC while in North Carolina either US Forest Service or the NC Forest Service, and the Maryland DNR for Maryland users.

Spot forecast information will be disseminated only to the requesting agency by means of a FAX or telephone.

APPENDICES

A.     National Agreement For Meteorological Services Of Agencies With Land Management and Fire Protection Responsibilities.

B.    Federal Register

C.    Surrounding Office’s Contact Information

D.    Wakefield County Zone Map

E.     Example of a Red Flag Warning (RFW)

F.     Elements in the Daily Fire Weather Forecast

1.      Daytime Burn Categories

2.      Nighttime Smoke Dispersion Outlook

3.      LAL Tables

4.      Burn Categories V’s Ventilation Index

5.      Interpretation of Dispersion Index Values

G. Wind Profile Information

1.      Adverse Wind Profiles

2.      Wind Profile Analysis Definitions

H.  Example of The Daily Fire Weather Forecast

I.  Example of the WS D-1 (Spot Forecast)

J.  Example Point Forecast

K. Signatory Page

APPENDIX A

March 1983

NATIONAL AGREEMENT

FOR

METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES

IN SUPPORT OF

AGENCIES WITH

LAND MANAGEMENT

AND

FIRE PROTECTION RESPONSIBILITIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION

II. AUTHORITY

III. OBJECTIVES

IV. RESPONSIBILITIES

A. National Weather Service

1. Basic meteorological services

2. Fire weather training

3. Special meteorological services

B. User Agencies

1. Fire-management computer systems

2. Fire weather observations

3. On-site meteorological support

4. Training

5. Other special services

C. Joint Responsibilities

V. PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING SERVICES

VI. BILLING PROCEDURES

VII. AMENDMENTS

VIII. TERMS OF NATIONAL AGREEMENT

IX. TECHNICAL MONITOR FOR NWS

X. SIGNATORY PAGE

XI. APPENDIX OF DEFINITIONS

I. INTRODUCTION

This National Agreement is between the National Weather Service (NWS) and agencies with land management and fire management responsibilities signatory to this agreement. They are referred to in this agreement as "NWS" and "USER AGENCIES," respectively.

The User Agencies are responsible for the maintenance, improvements, and protection of the wild lands of, owned or held in trust by, the United States. Accurate and timely weather information is required to manage effectively and efficiently this valuable national resource. The NWS has the expertise, organization, and legal charter to satisfy this need nationally. It is with this knowledge that this Agreement is entered into. Its purpose is to combine resources so as to best serve the needs of the public and to fulfill the obligations of the respective agencies.

II. AUTHORITY

This agreement is authorized under the Economy Act,31 U.S.C. 686; 15 U.S.C. 313; and 49 U.S.C. 1463; and the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act 16 U.S.C. 2101, et. sec.

III. OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this Agreement are to identify meteorological services to be provided, establish the interagency relationships, and define financial and other obligations of the NWS and User Agencies.

IV. RESPONSIBILITIES

A. National Weather Service

Basic meteorological services will be provided during normal working hours in accordance with Operating Plans for designated NWS offices to the extent of NWS fire weather resources. NWS regional headquarters will identify to the User Agency headquarters a list of the designated NWS fire weather offices on an annual basis. These services will be made available without cost and may include:

a. Routine daily fire weather forecasts

b. Outlooks and discussions

c. Weather observations

d. Red flag forecasts

e. Spot forecasts

f. Prescribed burn forecasts

g. Smoke management forecasts and information

h. Consultation and technical advice

i. Amendments/updates.

2. Fire weather training

The NWS recognizes the need for training in fire weather meteorology for NWS forecasters. To the extent of available resources, the NWS will meet this need.

3. Special meteorological services

These services will be provided by designated NWS offices on a reimbursable basis as stated in Section IV B.

a. Weather observer training

b. Weather observation station visitations

c. Participation in User Agency training activities

(1) Course development carried out at User Agency facilities

(2) Classroom training

d. On-site meteorological service

e. Other special services.

B. User Agencies

The following services and resources will be provided by User Agencies:

1. Fire-management computer systems

Where existing fire management computer systems are locally available, access to the systems will be provided.

2. Fire weather observations

a. Provide daily surface weather observations and enter data into fire-management computer systems.

b. Provide all equipment, equipment maintenance, and inspection of weather-observing sites.

c. Meet all travel and per diem costs associated with User Agencies' requests for visits of NWS personnel to weather-observing sites.

d. Provide for collection of remote automatic weather systems data and entry into the fire-management computer system.

e. Provide observations for site-specific and other special forecasts.

3. On-site meteorological support

a. Meet costs directly associated with on-site meteorological support by NWS personnel. This includes costs incurred by the backup NWS office.

b. Provide logistical and weather observation support to NWS personnel at on-site operations.

c. Provide access to telecommunication services where available.

4. Training

a. Meet per diem and travel costs for NWS personnel participating in the conduct of User Agency training.

b. Provide technical assistance, instruction, and supporting material for NWS-sponsored fire weather training sessions.

5. Other special services

User Agencies will provide logistics support and meet all overtime, travel, and per diem costs of NWS personnel associated with the provision of all other special services.

C. Joint Responsibilities

NWS and User Agencies shall prepare an annual Operating Plan for individual fire weather office areas of responsibility. This plan will identify the basic. weather services covered under Section IV.

V. PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING SERVICES

Procedures for ordering services will be specified in Operating Plans for each NWS fire weather office.

VI. BILLING PROCEDURES

Costs to be recovered from User Agencies will be calculated on the basis of expense reports submitted to NWS regional headquarters by field personnel. Copies of expense reports will be forwarded to appropriate User-Agencies by NWS regional headquarters. This procedure will enable agencies to accurately determine costs to be reimbursed during a given fiscal year. Billing of User Agencies will be accomplished by NWS regional submission of appropriate expense reports to the NOAA Reimbursable Division. Bills will include a statement of service rendered, dates it was provided, and location where provided.

All questions relating to billing procedure, charges, current costs, and individual expense reports should be directed to the appropriate NWS regional contact or the NWS Technical Monitor.

VII. AMENDMENTS

Upon written notice, the terms of this Agreement are subject to amendment at any time by mutual agreement of the parties.

The signatory agencies agree to consider expansion of this Agreement to cover areas of mutual concern, e.g., changing technology and improved procedures, as opportunities for such cooperation become available.

VIII. TERMS OF NATIONAL AGREEMENT

A. The terms of this Agreement shall become effective upon execution by NWS and any or all User Agencies and shall remain in effect until such times as the Agreement is terminated by mutual agreement. Any agency may withdraw at any time by ninety (90) days written notice to all parties.

B. This Agreement does not constitute a financial obligation for any party in excess of appropriations authorized by law and administratively allocated for the purposes intended.

IX. TECHNICAL MONITOR FOR NWS

The NWS Technical Monitor for this Agreement shall be:

Fire Weather Program Leader (W/OM12)National Weather Service1325 East West Highway, SSMC 2 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910.

X. SIGNATORY PAGE

A.        National Weather Service

/s/ Elbert W. Friday. Jr.

National Weather Service

Date: 5/5/83

A.           User Agencies

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

/s/ Gary E. Cargill

U.S. Forest Service

Date: MAY 20,1983

DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR

/s/ Arnold E. Petty

Bureau of Land Management

Date: May 27, 1983

/s/ Russell E. Dickenson

National Park Service

Date: 6-8-83

/s/ Sidnev L. Mills

Bureau of Indian Affairs

Date: 6-29-83

Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary (Operations)

/s/ F. Eugene Hester

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Date: 6-22-83

DEFINITIONS

When the following terms are used in this Agreement or in an operating plan, such terms will have the meanings stated h" 1 nw

A. Fire Weather Office Operating Plan

A procedural guide which describes the services provided within the area of a fire weather office's responsibility.

B. Basic Meteorological Services

Basic meteorological services are those state-of-the-science meteorological forecasts, warnings, observations, and statements produced in a designated NWS fire weather office during normal working hours.

C. Fire Weather District

A fire weather district is the area of routine service responsibility as defined by the NWS. This area is usually defined by climatological factors, but may be modified somewhat to the administrative boundaries of the User Agencies.

D. Normal Working Hours

Normal working hours are defined in the Operating Plan, but usually cover 8-hour workdays, Monday through Friday, except during fire season when the normal hours cover 7 days a week.

E. Prescribed Fire

Prescribed fire is a fire burning in wildland fuels according to a planned prescription and confined within planned boundaries for the purpose of achieving specific objectives of resource management. (Prescribed burning is the practice of prescribed fire use.)

F. Red Flag

Red flag is a program which highlights the onset of critical weather conditions conducive to extensive wildfire occurrences.

G. Special Meteorological Services

Meteorological services uniquely required by User Agencies which cannot be provided at a designated NWS fire weather office during normal working hours.

H. Spot Forecasts

Spot forecasts are site-specific weather forecasts. They are issued upon request of User Agencies for wildfires, prescribed burns, or special projects.

I. On-Site

That special service which dedicates a fire weather forecaster to a wildfire, prescribed fire, or special project such that the fire weather forecaster is removed from providing basic services at his/her assigned fire weather office.

WSOM Issuance91-11 8-22-91

APPENDIX B

Federal  Register

fedreg1.gif

fedreg2.gif

APPENDIX C

Surrounding National Weather Service Offices

1)  Sterling, VA

Meteorologist In Charge – Jim Travers

Warning Coordination Meteorologist – Barbara Watson

Fire Weather Program Leader – Christopher Strong

Phone # (703) 260-0106

Fax # (703) 260-0809

2)  Blacksburg, VA

Meteorologist in Charge – John Wright

Warning Coordination Meteorologist – Mike Emlaw

Fire Weather Program Leader -  Phillip Manuel

Phone # (540) 552-0084

Fax # (540) 552-1650

3)  Mt. Holly, NJ

Meteorologist in Charge- Gary Szatkowski

Warning Coordination Meteorologist – Joe Miketta

Fire Weather Program Leader -  Robert Stauber

Phone # (609) 261-6603

Fax # (609) 261-6614

4)  Raleigh, NC

Meteorologist in Charge – Stephen Harned

Warning Coordination Meteorologist – George Lemons

Fire Weather Program Leader – Phillip Badgett

Phone # (919) 515-8203

Fax # (919) 515-8213

5)  Morehead City, NC

Meteorologist in Charge – Thomas Kriehn

Warning Coordination Meteorologist – Jeff Orrock

Fire Weather Program Leader – Jim Merrell

Phone # (252) 223-2328

Fax # (252) 223-6123

The numbers listed above are unlisted and are for official business only.  Thus do not give them out.

APPENDIX D

Wakefield VA Zone area (highlighted in green)

CWA.gif

APPENDIX E

Red Flag Warning

WBCRFWAKQ.txt

APPENDIX F

1.      Daytime Burn Category Forecasts

2.      Smoke Dispersion Outlook (Tonight Period)

3.      LAL Tables

4.      Burn Category V’s Ventilation Index

5.      Interpretation of Dispersion Index Values

APPENDIX G

1. Graphical Depiction of Adverse Wind Profiles

advwnds.jpg

2. Wind Profile Analysis Definitions

Favorable Profile  - A Favorable Profile is defined by Wind Speed increasing with height; or, a wind speed maximum (jet) existing above 3000ft AGL; or wind speed is less than 10 kts with little (4kts or less) change in speed between consecutive levels.

Questionable Profile – A Questionable Profile is defined by Wind speed greater than 10 kts at all or most levels with little (4kts or less) change in speed between consecutive levels; or a wind speed maximum (jet point) exists at 2000 to 3000ft AGL. 

Unfavorable Profile – An Unfavorable Profile exists when a Wind speed maximum exists within 2000 ft AGL with speed decreasing by 5 kts or more aloft (from max to min).  If the 5kt threshold is not met, the profile can still be listed as unfavorable if it is certain that the wind speed maximum is not a result of air jetting at the top of a diurnal inversion.

APPENDIX H

Example of the Daily Fire Weather Forecast (afternoon version):

APPENDIX I

Example Of The WS D-1:

D-1.gif

APPENDIX J

Sample Point Forecast:

WBCFWMAKQ.txt
APPENDIX K

Signatory Page

USDA Forest Service

__________________________________________________________

Virginia Department of Forestry

__________________________________________________________

US Fish and Wildlife Service

__________________________________________________________

North Carolina Division of Forest Resources

__________________________________________________________

US Department of Defense

__________________________________________________________

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

__________________________________________________________

National Park Service

     ___________________________________________________________