The Hydrometeorological Automated Data System collects raw hydrological and meteorological observations from GOES (Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite) DCPs (Data Collection Platforms).

HADS processes the data and applies quality assurance algorithms. HADS converts the data passing this test to SHEF and disseminates it to users.

Use the HADS page to view metadata and real-time data for locations. Enter the NWS Location Identifier (NWSLI) for a station.

The metadata table shows the name, NESDIS ID, owner, latitude/longitude, transmission times, and a map.

Note: A gage may collect data every 15 minutes but only transmit hourly. Click the Decoded Data button to see the data for the last seven days.

Periodically check the “New Gages” section to claim any gages reporting data but not assigned to a Hydrologic Service Area. Check the gage’s metadata to make sure everything is correct.

The National Weather Service Location Identifier (NWSLI) is a database of locations – river gages, COOP observers, ASOS sites, etc.

Use this interface to request site identifiers for new gages or verify the information listed for gages is consistent with HydroBase and other databases.

Do not delete sites from this database – make them inactive. Although a gage may no longer be reporting, the RFC may still have the location in their database.

Browse the information to find inactive sites or correct erroneous information.

Reference: NWSI 30-1204 Site Identifiers

The Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) provides a consistent look and feel to river gage information on NWS web sites.

You must configure each location in order for it to appear on the AHPS site.

Use the AHPS Configuration Management System (CMS) to accomplish this task.

Review your office’s AHPS page. Contact Emergency Managers and other stakeholders to see if any other sites, beside the forecast points (required) should be included.

Reference: AHPS Configuration Management System

The National Inventory of Dams (NID) is a database of reservoir information compiled and maintained by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Use the information in the NID to identify high-hazard reservoirs in your HSA. Verify you have all of the Emergency Action Plans (EAP) for the high-hazard dams. Contact the reservoir owners if you need copies of the EAP.

Compare the NID metadata to the reservoir information in HydroBase. Determine which value is correct. If HydroBase is incorrect, fix the error. If you suspect the NID information is wrong, use the contact information on the NID interface to report the error.

 

You can use geographical information systems (GIS) software to create AWIPS overlays, create maps and graphics. The overlays of burn scars will help forecasters identify areas with higher risk for flash flooding.

Suggestion: Use the information from NID to create an overlay of reservoirs (especially high hazard reservoirs) in your HSA. Use the contact information on the NID interface if you notice errors such as reservoirs listed in your HSA but plotting outside the boundaries.

Commercial software packages are available through the Environmental System Research Institute (ESRI).

Check with your regional hydrology representative about accessing the shared license. Another option is freeware, such as the Geographic Resources Analysis Support System (GRASS).

Check with the ITO at your office before installing any programs.

Google Earth is a geographic information visualizer combining satellite imagery, topographic, and other types of geospatial data.

Use Google Earth before fieldwork to identify potential spotters, changes to land use, and areas prone to flooding.

The NWS has a license to use Google Earth. Contact your regional hydrology representative for licensing information.

Reference: Google Earth