WRF model - FAQ.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is WRF?

A: WRF stands for Weather Forecast & Research model, a suite of many physical models in one packge. It is the most perspective weather model. Many organizations are working on it, like NCAR, NCEP, FSL, AFWA, NRL, OU, FAA. MM5 model will become obsolete in the next years.

Q: What machine do I need?

A: You need as fast as possible CPU, if possible dual/quad-cpu/core. The RAM memory is not so important, but for larger domains (100x100, 150x150, 200x200) you will need more RAM. The computer has to do vast ammount of calculations (like ordinary differential equations, etc.). So, you need about 256 MB for the virtual machine (Linux) and for the host machine (Windows) it depends from your operating system (for Windows 2000, 256 MB is good), so finally 512 MB.

Q: Is there some GUI for easier configuration of the model?

A: Yes, MeteOS has a nice Java graphical user interface, you can configure and run the model from it and finally to get the products/maps..

Q: How much time will be needed for an ordinary forecast/simulation?

A: Here are the benchmarks. Note that these benchmarks are for Linux. Under VMware there will be some slow down.