The National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) designed the Regional Analysis and Forecast System (RAFS) to improve numerical guidance for weather predictions over the United States out to 48 hours. The Nested Grid Model (NGM) that makes up the RAFS forecast component provides better spatial resolution (particularly for lower layers on the vertical axis) and uses observations more effectively than the previous limited-area fine-mesh model (LFM).
| Model | Grid/Scale | Period of Record | Model Cycle | Output Timestep | Data Access Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NGM | 180km | 01Jan1991 - 15Apr1997 | 2/day: 00 and 12UTC | 2-hourly, +00 to +48 hours | HAS |
Reference
Hoke, J.E., N. A. Phillips, G.J. DiMego, J.J. Tuccillo, and J.G. Sela, 1989: The Regional Analysis and Forecast System of the National Meteorological Center. Weather and Forecasting, 4 (323-334). doi:10.1175/1520-0434(1989)004<0323:TRAAFS>2.0.CO;2
