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OpenRoad technical description


Web-based winter service
Features
  • Immediate online access to text forecasts
  • Map-based visualisation of the region, with icons indicating the worst state at forecast sites
  • Access to site-specific forecast graphs for key weather elements, updated when appropriate
  • Animated sequences of UK rainfall radar data, satellite images, lightning risk and synoptic charts
  • Optional enhanced visualisation of forecast distribution and intensity of precipitation, and precipitation type
  • Automated graphs, with 36-hour forecasts, updated every six hours. Parameters include: road-surface temperature and road state; air temperature and dew point, precipitation, visibility and wind — speed and direction, including gusts
  • Actual road-surface temperature data overlaid on forecast graphs
  • Severe weather warnings if they affect the local-area forecast.
  • Forecaster-intervened graphs, reviewed and enhanced by an experienced forecaster with knowledge of the region and forecast sites
  • Interactive map, with icons at each of the forecast sites which summarise the predicted worst weather state expected during the forecast period.
  • Interactive map which allows the user to turn off and on a number of layers within the backdrop, including a relief map, county boundaries and the various classes of roads

Trucks on snowy motorway

OpenRoad: South-west zoomed radar image

Two subscription options are available

The standard weather package includes:

  • animated synoptic charts, in 12-hour steps, out to 60 hours ahead;
  • UK satellite images — single frame visible image, and an animated infrared loop;
  • UK rainfall radar images — historical rainfall information at least every 30 minutes;
  • hourly observed information from more than 60 observation sites across the UK, giving air temperature, visibility, wind speed and direction.

The enhanced weather package contains the above plus:

  • 0- to 6-hour precipitation forecasts, including rate and type;
  • pre-defined regional areas of rainfall radar;
  • actual data and animation of lightning.

Summer forecast

Specialist 24-hour text forecast designed for those surfacing roads, includes:

  • rainfall;
  • strong winds;
  • road-surface temperature;
  • timings of weather events.

For further information about working with the Met Office on weather solutions please contact our 24-hour Customer Centre.

OpenRoad is a registered trademark of the Met Office.