Beyond the forecast: The expansive role of community weather models

Visualization of output from a community weather model
Lecture
Aug. 23, 2025

3:00 – 4:00 pm MDT

NoBo Library, 4500 13th St, Boulder, CO 80304

Have you ever wondered how meteorologists predict the weather? They use powerful computer models like the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS) and the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, which are super-simulators of the atmosphere. But these models are used far beyond daily forecasts! These community-driven models tackle a wide range of challenges, from predicting severe storms to understanding climate change and its potential impact on communities.

In her Explorer Series Lecture, NSF NCAR Scientist Kelly Werner will share the many ways community models are used by scientists around the world and delve into the power of collaboration. She will explore how scientists work together to make these models even more accurate and keep pace with ever-evolving technology.

Kelly Werner

Mesoscale and Microscale Meteorology Laboratory, NSF NCAR

Kelly Keene Werner is an Associate Scientist in the Mesoscale and Microscale Meteorology Laboratory at the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR). Her primary role is with the Model Development and Community Support group for both the MPAS and WRF modeling systems. As part of this effort, she coordinates and teaches modeling tutorials and provides online support to students and model users worldwide. Her work also focuses on developing pre-configured modeling environments on a variety of computing platforms, and quantitative content analysis to improve model forecasts for severe weather events. She leads and/or is a member of a variety of committees focused on better organization, communication, and streamlining programs across NSF NCAR and UCAR.