by order of the commander wright patterson air …...services, including weather observations and...

43
BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE WRIGHT PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE INSTRUCTION 15-101 19 MAY 2017 Weather WEATHER SUPPORT COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-publishing website at http://www.e-Publishing.af.mil RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication OPR: 88 OSS/OSW Supersedes: WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI 15-101, 8 August 2014 Certified by: 88 OSS/OSW (Mr. Scott A. Lutz) Pages: 43 This instruction establishes and defines Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) weather support requirements and responsibilities and implements Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 15-1, Air Force Weather Operations, AFI 15-114, Functional Resource and Weather Technical Performance Evaluation, AFI 15-128, Air Force Weather Roles and Responsibilities, Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 15-111, Surface Weather Observations, AFMAN 15-124, Meteorological Codes, AFMAN 15-129V1, Air and Space Weather Operations - Characterization, AFMAN 15- 129V2, Air and Space Weather Operations - Exploitation, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 10-206, Operational Reporting, AFI 10-2501, Air Force Emergency Management (EM) Program, and the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)/Data Page between the 15th Operational Weather Squadron at Scott AFB and the Base Weather Station. This instruction establishes responsibilities and weather support procedures and provides general information for weather services, including weather observations and forecasts, weather watches, warnings, and advisories, information dissemination, base-wide reciprocal support, and space weather data. It applies to units assigned to the 88th Air Base Wing (88 ABW), subordinate units, and units assigned, attached, or supported by WPAFB. Special requirements and procedures for the National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC) and Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) are documented in separate support agreements; Annex H of ACC OPORD 84-12, and AFI 16- 604, Implementation of, and Compliance With, the Treaty on Open Skies. This publication applies to Active, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve Forces. All records created as a result of processes prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with (IAW) Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 33-363, Management of Records, and disposed of IAW Air Force Records Information Management System (AFRIMS) Records Disposition Schedule (RDS). Certified Current, 9 May 2019

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Page 1: BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER WRIGHT PATTERSON AIR …...services, including weather observations and forecasts, weather watches, warnings, and advisories, information dissemination, base-wide

BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE

BASE

WRIGHT PATTERSON AIR FORCE

BASE INSTRUCTION 15-101

19 MAY 2017

Weather

WEATHER SUPPORT

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-publishing website at

http://www.e-Publishing.af.mil

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication

OPR: 88 OSS/OSW

Supersedes: WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI

15-101, 8 August 2014

Certified by: 88 OSS/OSW

(Mr. Scott A. Lutz)

Pages: 43

This instruction establishes and defines Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) weather

support requirements and responsibilities and implements Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD)

15-1, Air Force Weather Operations, AFI 15-114, Functional Resource and Weather Technical

Performance Evaluation, AFI 15-128, Air Force Weather Roles and Responsibilities, Air Force

Manual (AFMAN) 15-111, Surface Weather Observations, AFMAN 15-124, Meteorological

Codes, AFMAN 15-129V1, Air and Space Weather Operations - Characterization, AFMAN 15-

129V2, Air and Space Weather Operations - Exploitation, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 10-206,

Operational Reporting, AFI 10-2501, Air Force Emergency Management (EM) Program, and

the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)/Data Page between the 15th Operational Weather

Squadron at Scott AFB and the Base Weather Station. This instruction establishes

responsibilities and weather support procedures and provides general information for weather

services, including weather observations and forecasts, weather watches, warnings, and

advisories, information dissemination, base-wide reciprocal support, and space weather data. It

applies to units assigned to the 88th Air Base Wing (88 ABW), subordinate units, and units

assigned, attached, or supported by WPAFB. Special requirements and procedures for the

National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC) and Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

are documented in separate support agreements; Annex H of ACC OPORD 84-12, and AFI 16-

604, Implementation of, and Compliance With, the Treaty on Open Skies. This publication

applies to Active, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve Forces. All records created as a

result of processes prescribed in this publication are maintained in accordance with (IAW) Air

Force Manual (AFMAN) 33-363, Management of Records, and disposed of IAW Air Force

Records Information Management System (AFRIMS) Records Disposition Schedule (RDS).

Certified Current, 9 May 2019

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2 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the Office of Primary

Responsibility (OPR) using the AF Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication; route

AF Forms 847 from the field through the appropriate chain of command.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Significant changes were made to Section 2.4., regarding the responsibility for issuing

forecasted Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories (WWAs). The Weather Flight will now

have responsibility for issuing and managing WWAs with the 15 OWS providing collaboration

and backup capability if the Weather Flight is unable to issue WWAs. In addition, removed

Attachment 4, Sample Weather Product Dissemination Format/Interpretation Observation/

TAF/WWAs, as there is little value-added including examples in this instruction. Removed

Attachment 7, Mission Execution Forecast Example, and Attachment 8, Space Weather

Products, for the same reason. Other minor administrative changes were made throughout the

instruction.

Chapter 1— CHARACTERIZATION UNIT AND EXPLOITATION UNIT

INTERACTIONS 5

1.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 5

1.2. Concept of Operations. ........................................................................................... 5

1.3. Responsibilities. ...................................................................................................... 6

1.4. Duty Priorities. ........................................................................................................ 6

Table 1.1. 88 OSS/OSW Duty Priority Listing. ....................................................................... 7

1.5. Hours of Operation & Contact Information. ........................................................... 7

1.6. Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). ................................................................. 8

Chapter 2— AIRFIELD SUPPORT 9

2.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 9

2.2. Observations. .......................................................................................................... 9

Table 2.1. Mandatory Supplementary Weather Conditions. .................................................... 11

Table 2.2. Local Supplementary Weather Conditions. ............................................................ 11

2.3. Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) Support. ...................................................... 12

2.4. Resource Protection (RP) Support & Watches, Warnings, and Advisories

(WWA). ................................................................................................................... 12

Table 2.3. Weather Watches. ................................................................................................... 13

Table 2.4. Weather Warnings. ................................................................................................. 14

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 3

Table 2.5. Weather Advisories. ................................................................................................ 15

2.5. Dissemination Process. ........................................................................................... 16

Table 2.6. Notification Priority. ............................................................................................... 16

2.6. Cooperative Weather Watch (CWW). .................................................................... 17

2.7. Pilot to Metro Service (PMSV) Support. ................................................................ 17

2.8. Emergency Action(s) Response. ............................................................................. 17

Table 2.7. Conditions Requiring SWAP Activation. ............................................................... 18

Chapter 3— MISSION SERVICES 19

3.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 19

3.2. Flying Missions. ...................................................................................................... 19

3.3. Mission Weather Products (MWP). ........................................................................ 19

Table 3.1. 445 AW Weather Sensitivities. ............................................................................... 20

3.4. MISSIONWATCH. ................................................................................................ 20

3.5. Post-Mission Analysis/Feedback. ........................................................................... 21

3.6. Transient Aircrew Support. ..................................................................................... 21

3.7. Non-Flying Missions. ............................................................................................. 21

3.8. Space Weather Impacts. .......................................................................................... 21

Chapter 4— STAFF SERVICES 22

4.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 22

4.2. Staff Meteorological Functions............................................................................... 22

4.3. Staff Integration Functions. .................................................................................... 22

4.4. Reciprocal Support. ................................................................................................ 23

Chapter 5— WEATHER EQUIPMENT. 26

5.1. General. ................................................................................................................... 26

5.2. Meteorological Equipment...................................................................................... 26

5.3. Communications Equipment. .................................................................................. 26

5.4. Maintenance. ........................................................................................................... 26

Table 5.1. Equipment Maintenance List. ................................................................................. 27

Table 5.2. Equipment Restoral Priorities. ................................................................................ 27

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4 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

5.5. Backup Power. ........................................................................................................ 27

Attachment 1— GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 28

Attachment 2— SPECIAL WEATHER OBSERVATION CRITERIA 33

Attachment 3— FORECAST SPECIFICATION AND AMENDMENT CRITERIA 37

Attachment 4— CUSTOMER RESPONSE MATRIX 41

Attachment 5— FLYING UNIT MISSION LIMITING ENVIRONMENTAL

CONDITIONS 43

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 5

Chapter 1

CHARACTERIZATION UNIT AND EXPLOITATION UNIT INTERACTIONS

1.1. General. The Characterization Unit (CU) or 15th Operational Weather Squadron (OWS)

located at Scott AFB, and the Exploitation Unit (EU), or 88th Operations Support Squadron

Weather Flight (88 OSS/OSW), are the official weather support agencies for Wright Patterson

AFB. These agencies provide comprehensive weather support for the 88th Air Base Wing (88

ABW), 445th Airlift Wing (445 AW), the 55th Wing which supports both the National Airborne

Operations Center (NAOC) and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s (DTRA) Open Skies

program, subordinate units, and units assigned, attached, or supported by Wright-Patterson

AFB. The 88 OSS/OSW is commonly referred to as the Weather Flight (WF) and serves as the

focal point for all weather-related support. This instruction will be reviewed and revised no

greater than biennially or IAW with host/parent unit procedures if the time is less than biennially.

1.1.1. The 15 OWS is designated as the CU for the air and space environment for the

Northeast Continental United States (CONUS). Characterization encompasses the “collect,

analyze and predict” weather core competencies. Characterization of the environment is

dependent on Air Force Weather’s ability to collect accurate data, correctly analyze the data,

and use the results to produce a coherent picture of the present and future state of the air and

space environment.

1.1.2. The 88 OSS/OSW is designated the EU for WPAFB. Exploitation is defined as the

ability to minimize the impact of environmental threats to friendly forces while

simultaneously capitalizing on environmental conditions that maximize the effectiveness of

ground, air, and space operations. EUs tailor the characterization of the environment

provided by the CU and apply pertinent data to a specific mission profile based on the overall

characterization of the air and space environment. To the greatest extent possible, the EU

will collaborate with the CU during the characterization of the environment to ensure air and

space conditions can be exploited to meet customer’s planning, operations, and mission

requirements.

1.2. Concept of Operations.

1.2.1. The 15 OWS, located at Scott AFB, Illinois, provides regional and operational-level

weather products and information to Air Force and Army units in the Northeast region of the

CONUS. The 15 OWS performs a continuous Meteorological Watch or METWATCH for

WPAFB. METWATCH is a deliberate, continuous process for monitoring terrestrial

weather or the space environment in an area or region. The purpose of a METWATCH is to

identify when and where observed conditions significantly diverge from forecast conditions,

determine courses of action to update or amend a forecast product or group of products, and

notify designated agencies impacted by the change. Notification of changes to products

during the METWATCH is coordinated with the base weather station.

1.2.2. The 88 OSS/OSW is the primary source of mission-tailored weather services for the

88 ABW, 445 AW, and other organizations, activities, or aircrew requiring weather services.

The WF will make every effort to ensure mission-limiting weather is analyzed and exploited

to meet the safety and resource protection requirements of WPAFB and its customers.

Meteorological services provided are detailed in Chapters 2 – 4.

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6 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

1.3. Responsibilities.

1.3.1. General responsibilities of the CU and EU are outlined in AFI 15-128, Air Force

Weather Roles and Responsibilities, Chapters 4 and 6.

1.3.2. CU Responsibilities. OWSs are the authoritative source for environmental

characterization in their respective AORs as identified in AFVA 15-136, Air Force

Operational Weather Squadron Areas of Responsibility - CONUS and AFVA 15-137, Air

Force Operational Weather Squadron Areas of Responsibility. OWSs are responsible for

collection of atmospheric data/information, analysis and prediction of the atmosphere, and

generation of products based on this analysis and prediction for use by WFs and other

agencies.

1.3.3. EU (88 OSS/OSW) Responsibilities. The EUs primary purpose is to facilitate

exploitation of the environment through integration into every phase of operations-planning

and execution processes. EUs assess the mission environment to determine environmental

threats, and where possible, find alternatives to mitigate those threats. EUs support the entire

spectrum of Air Force, Army, and Special Operations’ Active and Reserve Component

mission types including but not limited to: aviation and ground operations conducted at home

station and deployed locations. EUs are also responsible to support other parent/host unit

operations where success may depend on mitigation of environmental threats (Civil

Engineering, Logistics, Communications, etc.). EU functions include the Staff Integration

function, Mission Integration function and the Airfield Support function.

1.3.4. WPAFB Installation Data Page. The 15 OWS and 88 OSS/OSW will coordinate

and maintain a WPAFB Installation Data Page detailing TAF specification and amendment

criteria, WWA thresholds, desired lead times, mission impacts, unit information, Joint

Environmental Toolkit (JET) back-up contacts, and local outage back-up information.

1.4. Duty Priorities. IAW AFMAN 15-129V2, para 1.3.3.1., the WF has created the following

duty priorities based on supported mission requirements.

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 7

Table 1.1. 88 OSS/OSW Duty Priority Listing.

Priority Duties

1 Complete Emergency War Order (EWO) tasking; support to NAOC alert activities

2 Execute WF evacuation

3 Respond to aircraft/ground emergencies (aircraft emergencies and mishaps, accidental

release of toxic chemicals, or any operation involving the safety of aircraft, material, or

personnel)

4 Support and respond to airborne aircraft (PMSV)

5 Provide Weather Information for Supervisor of Flying (SOF).

6 Perform Severe Weather Action Process (SWAP) Operations

7 Oversee, augment, or supplement automated observing systems (FMQ-19) to ensure

accuracy of data and ensure dissemination of surface weather observations

8 Provide “Eyes Forward” / Collaborate with 15 OWS

9 Mission Execution Forecast Process; Produce and Disseminate Forecasts

10 Disseminate Urgent Pilot Reports (PIREPs) and Special PIREPs/Air Reports

(AIREPs) Locally and Longline

11 Disseminate routine PIREPs locally and to the 15 OWS (as required)

12 Perform MISSIONWATCH

13 Provide Staff Weather Briefings

14 Weather Functional Training

15 Accomplish Administrative Tasks

1.5. Hours of Operation & Contact Information.

1.5.1. 88 OSS/OSW. Airfield and mission services hours of operations are 24 hours a day, 7

days a week, 365 days per year. Staff weather services are available during normal duty

hours, M-F, 0800 – 1600, or as required.

1.5.2. 15 OWS. Hours of operation are 24/7, 365 days a year.

1.5.3. Contact Information.

1.5.3.1. 88 OSS/OSW: ( 937) 257-7779 / DSN 787-7779

1.5.3.2. 88 OSS/OSWEU AOL: (937) 904-3935 / DSN 674-3935

1.5.3.3. PMSV 348.4 MHz

1.5.3.4. 15 OWS ( 618) 256-9699 / DSN 576-9699

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8 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

1.6. Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Both the WF and 15 OWS require COOPs to

address continuing operations in the event of a disaster or emergency.

1.6.1. 88 OSS/OSWCOOP and Alternate Operating Location (AOL). In the event of a

communication outage or building evacuation, the WF will move to building 101 (445 AW

Mission Support Group building), Room 153, Comm (937) 904-3935 / DSN 674-3935. WF

members will follow duty-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) and evacuation

checklists (including a list of required back-up equipment) and resume services at the AOL

as soon as possible. The WF will continue operational support and resume eyes forward

responsibilities for the OWS. If access to observing sensing equipment readouts is lost,

manual equipment will be used to take observations. Most services/support will be

provided, but will require a case-by-case assessment depending on communication line

status, equipment status, etc. Expect most services to be somewhat degraded (weather

products, pilot briefings, etc.) due to limited facilities and loss of dedicated data services,

including sensors and various data types (meteorological satellite (METSAT), radar imagery,

etc.). For flight safety reasons, the WF will not evacuate during base exercises.

1.6.2. 15 OWS COOP.

1.6.2.1. For short term 15 OWS outages (up to 72 hours), the WF will assume local TAF

and any other responsibility delegated by the OWS.

1.6.2.2. For long-term outages (greater than 72 hours), the 15 OWS will resume support

from an alternate location to the greatest extent possible.

1.6.2.3. Exercises . In coordination with the WPAFB WF, the 15 OWS will conduct

periodic COOP exercises where the WF will take responsibility for short-term operations,

to include items listed in 1.6.2.1 above.

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 9

Chapter 2

AIRFIELD SUPPORT

2.1. General. Airfield support includes those functions affecting the WPAFB aerodrome

(defined within 5NM of the base as a whole). The Airfield Support function consists of weather

observing, meteorological watch, and resource protection.

2.2. Observations. Observations are taken, recorded, and disseminated IAW AFMAN 15-111,

Surface Weather Observations, utilizing the Fixed Meteorological Equipment (FMQ-19)

Automated Meteorological Observing System (AMOS). Most observations are taken

automatically by the FMQ-19 with no human intervention. At times, it is necessary for a

weather forecaster to augment or supplement the system. Automated and augmentation

processes are outlined in para 2.2.7. During certain inclement weather conditions, augmented

and manual observations may need to be taken when the FMQ-19 is unreliable or inoperable or

safety of flight or operations is impacted. Conditions and thresholds warranting augmented and

manual observations are defined in local WF procedures. The following observations are created

and disseminated:

2.2.1. Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR). METAR observations are created

between 45 and 59 minutes after every hour. METARs are disseminated both locally and

long-line between 55 and 59 minutes after the hour.

2.2.2. Aviation Selected Special Weather Report (SPECI ). A SPECI is an unscheduled

observation completed and transmitted when any of the WPAFB Special criteria listed in

Attachment 2 have been observed or sensed. SPECIs will contain all data elements found in

a METAR plus additional remarks that elaborates on data in the body of the report. All

SPECI reports will be prepared and transmitted as soon as possible after the relevant criteria

are observed.

2.2.3. Aviation Selected Local Weather Report (LOCAL). During augmentation, the WF

will take single element LOCAL observations for altimeter setting changes.

2.2.4. Official Observing Points. The official observing point is the location of the FMQ-

19 sensors located on the North and South ends of the airfield. Under normal circumstances,

the sensor on the North end of the airfield will be used. During periods of augmentation and

manual observations, the observation point will be approximately 50 feet away from the

West side of building 206 (South Hangar). If augmentation is required during relocations to

the AOL the observation point is the north side of Building 101 on the flight-line next to the

metal drainage grate. The AOL elevation is the same as the official observing elevation of

823 feet.

2.2.5. Observing Point Limitations.

2.2.5.1. Both FMQ-19 sensors are properly sited and no limitations are currently noted.

2.2.5.2. Augmented observations taken at the primary augmentation site are degraded

because the observer’s view to the east is blocked by an aircraft hangar and surrounding

buildings. Thunder may not be heard due to flight line noise.

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10 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

2.2.5.3. Augmented observations taken at the AOL are degraded because view to the east

is blocked by buildings.

2.2.6. Automated FMQ-19 Observation. An automated observation is any observation

having been evaluated, prepared, and transmitted by an observing system without human

intervention. In automated mode, the FMQ-19 observing system will record and disseminate

weather observations. The FMQ-19 uses time averaging of sensor data. In an automated

observation, sky condition will be an evaluation of sensor data gathered during the 30-minute

period ending at the actual time of the observation. All other elements evaluated are based

on sensor data that is within 10 minutes or less of the actual time of the observation.

2.2.7. Forecaster FMQ-19 Augmentation. Augmentation is the process of having a

certified weather forecaster manually add or edit data to an observation generated by the

FMQ-19. WF personnel will augment the FMQ-19 IAW locally developed procedures. The

two augmentation processes used are supplementing and back up.

2.2.7.1. Supplementing (definition). Supplemental observations are defined as

manually adding meteorological information to an observation generated by the FMQ-19

that is beyond that system’s capability to measure and report. For example, the sensor

cannot sense a tornado or hail.

2.2.7.2. Supplementing procedures. WF personnel will supplement observations when

the weather conditions in Table 2.1., Mandatory Supplementary Weather Conditions or

Table 2.2., Local Supplementary Weather Conditions, are observed. Weather personnel

are prepared to supplement observations whenever a watch or warning has been issued

for tornadic activity.

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 11

Table 2.1. Mandatory Supplementary Weather Conditions.

Mandatory Supplementary Weather Conditions – Body of Report (Note 1.)

Tornado (+FC) (Note 2) (Note 3)

Funnel Cloud (FC) (Note 2) (Note 3)

Waterspout (+FC) (Note 2) (Note 3)

Hail (GR)

Volcanic Ash (VA)

Ice Pellets (IP)

Visibility < 1/4 mile

Any weather element deemed operationally significant that is beyond the capabilities of the

automated weather observing system.

Mandatory Supplementary Weather Conditions – Remarks Section of Report (Note 1.)

Funnel Cloud (Tornadic Activity_B/E(hh)mm_LOC/DIR_(MOV)) (Note 2) Snow Depth (Note

4)(if heavy snow warning has been issued and snowfall is occurring)

Notes:

1. References for coding augmented weather conditions are located in chapter 13 of AFMAN 15-

111.

2. The immediate reporting of funnel clouds takes precedent over any other phenomenon.

3. Log on to AMOS and be prepared to supplement for tornadic activity anytime a weather watch

or warning has been issued for the phenomena.

4. All Remarks and Additive Data references are provided in AFMAN 15-111, Attachment 3.

Table 2.2. Local Supplementary Weather Conditions.

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12 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

2.2.7.3. Backup (definition). The process of manually providing meteorological data

and/or dissemination of an FMQ-19 generated observation when the primary automated

method is not operational or is unavailable due to sensor and/or communication failure.

2.2.7.4. Backup procedures. In the event of an FMQ-19 malfunction or failure, back-

up procedures will be implemented. WF personnel will use manual observing procedures

when performing back-up operations. When required, the WF will encode and

disseminate METAR and SPECI observations IAW AFMAN 15-111, Table 3.2, and

local backup procedures. All element entries must be observed within 15 minutes of the

actual time of the observation with the exception of wind gusts and squalls, which are

reported only if they are observed within 10 minutes of the time of the observation. When

utilizing back-up equipment, all wind and pressure values must be recorded as estimated.

2.3. Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) Support. WPAFB TAFs are produced and

disseminated by the 15 OWS IAW AFI 15-128, AFMAN 15-124, AFMAN 15-129V1, and the

WPAFB Installation Data Page. Attachment 4 lists forecast specification and amendment

criteria. TAFs are valid for 30 hours, apply to the area within the 5NM area of the WPAFB

airfield complex, and will be issued at 0300, 1100, and 1900 Zulu time.

2.4. Resource Protection (RP) Support & Watches, Warnings, and Advisories

(WWA). The 15 OWS and WF conduct a continuous meteorological watch to identify and

assess emerging and imminent threats to WPAFB. Special Weather Statements (SWS) and

Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are special notices provided by the 15 OWS resulting from

both the forecast and METWATCH processes to assist military decision-makers with operational

safety and resource protection decisions. Advisories provide specific notice to an operational

agency of environmental phenomena with the potential to impact operations. Watches and

warnings provide notice of weather events posing a hazard to life or property. Weather Warning

criteria and customer responses are listed in Attachment 5.

2.4.1. Special Weather Statements (SWS) . SWSs are special notices issued by the 15

OWS to assist military decision makers with RP decisions.

2.4.2. Weather Watches. A weather watch is a special notice to installation

personnel/supported units of a potential for environmental conditions of such intensity as to

pose a hazard to life or property. They are used by installation personnel/supported units to

make force protection and risk management decisions. Watches are issued for a 5NM radius

of the center point of the Wright Patterson airfield and are defined on the 15 OWS Wright-

Patterson Installation Data Page, WWA Criteria Tab, and in Table 2.3. below.

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WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017 13

Table 2.3. Weather Watches.

Watch Type Criteria Desired Lead Time Issued By

Tornado exists w/n 5 NM As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Severe

Thunderstorms

Damaging Hail

Damaging Winds

Hail GTE 1/2 inch AND OR

Winds GTE 50 kts

As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Damaging Winds GTE 50 kts As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Freezing

Precipitation

Any Intensity As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Heavy Snow Accumulation GTE 2 in LTE 12

hrs

As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Blizzard Duration GTE 3 hrs, sustained

winds/gusts GTE 30 kts,

considerable falling and/or

blowing snow, with prevailing

visibility frequently LTE 1/4 SM

(all criteria must be met)

As Potential

Warrants

WF or

OWS

Lightning exists w/n 10 NM 30 Minutes WF or

OWS

2.4.3. Weather Warnings. A special notice to notify installation personnel when an

established weather condition of such intensity as to pose a hazard to life or property is

occurring or is expected to occur. Weather warnings provide concise information outlining

environmental threats and are used by commanders and personnel to make RP decisions and

take protective action. Warnings are issued for a 5NM radius (Lightning 10NM) at the

center point of the runway and are defined on the 15 OWS Wright-Patterson Installation Data

Page, WWA Criteria Tab, and in Table 2.4., below.

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14 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

Table 2.4. Weather Warnings.

Warning Type Criteria Desired Lead Time Issued By

Tornado expected within 5NM 15 minutes WF or OWS

Severe Thunderstorms

Damaging Hail

Damaging Winds

Hail GTE 1/2 inch

Winds GTE 50 knots 90 minutes

WF or OWS

Moderate Thunderstorms

Large Hail

High Winds

Any Hail LT 1/2"

Winds GTE 35kts but LT 50

knots

60 minutes

WF or OWS

Damaging Winds GTE 50 knots 60 minutes WF or OWS

Strong Winds GTE 35 kts but LT 50 kts 60 minutes WF or OWS

Freezing Precipitation Any Intensity 60 minutes WF or OWS

Heavy Snow GTE 2” in within 12 hrs 60 minutes WF or OWS

Blizzard Duration GTE 3 hrs, sustained

winds/gusts GTE 30 kts,

considerable falling and/or

blowing snow, with prevailing

visibility frequently LTE 1/4

SM (all criteria met)

60 minutes

WF or OWS

Heavy Rain GTE 2” in within 12 hrs 60 minutes WF or OWS

Observed Lightning within 10NM As Observed WF

Observed Lightning within 5NM As Observed WF

2.4.4. Observed Weather Warnings . Lightning warnings are the only observed warning

issued for WPAFB and extends 10NM in all directions from the airfield. Lightning warnings

are not issued until lightning is observed, either visually or via the National Lightning

Detection Network. The lightning warning will remain valid until lightning is no longer

observed within 10NM for at least 15 minutes. Exception: A lightning warning will not be

cancelled if a thunderstorm is within 5NM (as indicated on radar). All observed WWAs will

be issued by the WF during normal duty hours. If the WF is not able to issue observed

Warnings/Advisories the OWS will provide observed WWA coverage.

2.4.5. Weather Advisories. A weather ADVISORY is a special product notifying an end

user when an established environmental condition effecting operations is occurring or is

expected to occur on WPAFB and are defined on the 15 OWS Wright-Patterson Data Page,

WWA Criteria Tab, and in Table 2.5. below.

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Table 2.5. Weather Advisories.

Criteria Forecast/

Observed

Desired Lead Time Issued By

Equivalent Wind Chill

Temperature is LTE 0°F

Forecast 180 minutes WF or OWS

Winds GTE 25 but LT 35 kts Forecast 30 minutes WF or OWS

Observed Crosswinds GTE 20 kts Observed N/A WF

Observed LLWS occurring below

2000 ft AGL

Observed N/A WF

Snow Accumulation GTE 18” Observed N/A WF

TS w/n 25 NM (See Note 1) Observed N/A WF

TS w/n 50 NM (See Note 1) Observed N/A WF

Icing GTE Mod below 10,000 ft

AGL (See Note 1)

Observed N/A WF

Turbulence GTE Mod below

10,000 ft AGL (See Note 1)

Observed N/A WF

Visibility LT 1 SM (See Note 1) Observed N/A WF

Notes:

1. Local criteria defined in Weather Flight procedures for supported missions.

2.4.6. WWA Numbering Scheme. Advisories, watches, and warnings are numbered

consecutively by identifying the type of weather message (watch, warning, or advisory)

followed by a five-digit number. The first two numbers indicate the current month while the

second three numbers indicate the sequence number. For example, the message “Weather

Warning 02-005” means the month is February (02) and this is the fifth (005) warning issued

in the month. The message “Weather Advisory 12-013” means the month is December (12)

and this is the thirteenth (013) advisory issued in the month.

2.4.7. WWA Upgrades/Downgrades. WWAs will be upgraded (i.e., winds increase from

35 knots to 50 knots) or downgraded as required. Upgrades should meet the desired lead

times specified in Table 2.3., and Table 2.4. Only one warning will be in effect at a given

time (and will include multiple warning criteria as required) except for forecast tornado

warnings and/or observed lightning warnings. Tornado and lightning will be separate

warnings. With the exception of tornado and lightning warnings, if a warning is issued for

one criteria and it becomes necessary to warn for another criteria, a new warning and new

number will be issued, to include all criteria expected. A separate valid time may be

specified for each criteria if necessary.

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2.4.8. WWA Amendments. When WWAs no longer adequately describe the phenomenon's

expected occurrence, a completely new WWA with a new number will be issued. The

amendment will clearly state how the amendment or extension affects any previously issued

notices.

2.4.9. WWA Extensions. WWAs may be extended provided the extension is issued prior to

the expiration of the original notice.

2.4.10. WWA Cancellation. Warnings and watches are canceled when the weather

phenomena is no longer occurring or expected to occur. Warnings not extended or canceled

will automatically expire at the end of the valid period. Observed advisories will be canceled

when the criteria is no longer occurring and have not occurred in the last 30 minutes.

2.5. Dissemination Process.

2.5.1. Observations. Observations taken by either the FMQ-19 automated observing system

or the weather technician are disseminated via JET or the interface to the WPAFB

Information Dissemination System (IDS) for airfield support functions. When JET is non-

operational, the WF will relay observations to the following local organizations in order of

priority listed in Table 2.6. Observations may be submitted via AF-WEBS longline, if JET

is unavailable.

Table 2.6. Notification Priority.

1. Tower commercial (937) 257-7840

2. AFMC Command Post commercial (937) 257-6314

3. 445 AW Command Post commercial (937) 257-3551

4. Airfield Operations (88 OSS/OSAM) commercial (937) 257-2131

5. 15 OWS

2.5.2. TAFs. The 15 OWS normally issues and disseminates the TAF for WPAFB via JET

and the 15 OWS TAF Collaboration tool. If JET is non-operational, the WF will disseminate

TAFs to ATC, AFMC/A3XC, and 445 ABW/CP via telephone, fax, or e-mail.

2.5.3. SWSs. SWSs provide advance notice of widespread hazardous weather conditions

that have the potential to impact WPAFB. The 15 OWS transmits SWSs to the WF via email

and/or collaboration. WF leadership forwards SWSs to 88 OSS, 88 ABW, and 445 AW

leadership when weather conditions have the potential to impact operations.

2.5.4. WWAs. The WF or 15 OWS or will enter WWAs into JET to disseminate the

information directly or via other dissemination systems, to ATC, AFMC/A3XC, 445

AW/CP, and Airfield Management. If JET is out-of-service, the WF will make or coordinate

back-up calls through AFMC/A3XC. Upon notification, these units will further disseminate

all WWAs using the Command Post’s notification process. The AFMC Command Post

disseminates all WWAs via E-Mail and/or automated notification systems.

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2.5.4.1. Lightning Warning Notification. All lightning warnings are disseminated by

the AFMC Command Post to the base populace via email, WPAFB automated

notification systems, and the base’s Giant Voice system, allowing members on base to be

prepared for dangerous weather.

2.5.4.2. Tornado Warning Notification. The AFMC Command Post has the primary

responsibility for sending base-wide notifications and sounding the base siren when a

tornado warning has been issued.

2.6. Cooperative Weather Watch (CWW). The WF and ATC have established a CWW as

required by AFI 13-204V3, Airfield Operations Procedures and Programs, and AFMAN 15-

111. The agreement outlines ATC’s responsibility to notify the WF when ATC personnel

observe specific meteorological phenomena. Of primary concern is the report of tower visibility

differing from the prevailing surface visibility, local PIREPs, and any occurrence of previously

unreported weather conditions that could affect flight safety or be critical to the safety or

efficiency of other local operations and resources. All WF technicians must thoroughly

understand and be able to execute every element in the local cooperative weather watch

agreement. The WF maintains operating procedures for supporting the CWW program.

2.7. Pilot to Metro Service (PMSV) Support. Weather information is available via PMSV

during duty hours on frequency 348.4 Megahertz (MHz). The duty forecaster will monitor

PMSV traffic for all aircraft contacts.

2.8. Emergency Action(s) Response.

2.8.1. Aircraft Mishap. When notified on an aircraft mishap, the WF will initiate a save of

applicable data used in the development of any weather products provided and provide this

data to investigating agencies upon request.

2.8.1.1. When the WF provided the Mission Execution Forecast (MEF)/175-1, the WF

will notify the OWS Operations Floor Production Supervisor of all aircraft mishaps as

soon as possible after notification of the event. The WF will coordinate with the 15 OWS

to save all applicable data and products. If products from other OWSs were used, the WF

will coordinate with all applicable OWSs to ensure data is saved. Enough data covering

weather conditions before and after the mishap will be saved to fully reconstruct

environmental conditions.

2.8.1.2. If an OWS or another WF provided the MEF/175-1, they will conduct the data

save in coordination with any other Air Force Weather units involved.

2.8.2. Severe Weather Action Procedures (SWAP). The WF will initiate SWAP activities

in accordance with criteria listed in Table 2.7. and local procedures. Severe weather

procedures ensure sufficient manpower is available to meet the increased demand for timely

weather information from its supported unit(s) during significant weather events. It is

imperative that timely and accurate weather watches, warnings, and advisories are

disseminated to all agencies to ensure personnel and resource protection. The WF will

initiate a heightened METWATCH. The on-duty forecaster will notify the Weather Station

Chief of SWAP activation.

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Table 2.7. Conditions Requiring SWAP Activation.

SWAP ACTIVATION Criteria

1. One of the following is issued by the OWS:

Tornado Watch

Tornado Warning

Hail > 1/2 inch Warning

Winds > 50 kts Warning

Heavy Snow Warning

Freezing Precipitation Warning

Ice Pellets Observed or Forecast Within 1 Hour

The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm or tornado

watch/warning for Montgomery, Preble, Darke, Miami, or Greene counties.

Any situation, in the opinion of the duty observer, requiring additional

personnel (a surge in the workload, winter storm, hurricane evacuation, etc.).

2.8.3. Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High-yield Explosive (CBRNE)

Response.

2.8.3.1. If surface observations or alphanumeric forecasts are requested, make sure that

observations and forecasts provided are representative of the location/time of the CBRNE

event.

2.8.3.2. Work closely with Emergency Management or other functions to ensure the

supported commander gets a consistent picture.

2.8.3.3. Upon request from Emergency Management or other response agencies,

obtain/provide Chemical Downwind Messages from the 15 OWS or via local backup

procedures for producing Chemical Downwind Messages (CDMs).

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Chapter 3

MISSION SERVICES

3.1. General. The base weather station supports WPAFB flying and non-flying missions. This

chapter identifies the flying and non-flying missions and the weather support provided.

3.2. Flying Missions. The WF provides weather support to the flying units listed in

Attachment 7. The 445 AW C-17 airlift is the primary home station flying mission, while the

National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC) and Open Skies missions, are periodic, strategic

level defense missions that frequently operate at, or near, WPAFB. The 445 AW C-17 weather

sensitivities are listed in Table 3.1. Due to the sensitive nature of the NAOC and Open Skies

missions they are not listed, but are published in their own instructions and local WF operating

procedures.

3.3. Mission Weather Products (MWP). Mission weather products fuse theater scale products

with local mission requirements enabling the direct inject of weather impacts into warfighter

planning and/or execution. The result is a product designed to provide timely, accurate, and

relevant environmental information for planning and execution. These products must be

horizontally consistent with (but not necessarily mirror) products issued by any OWS and the

557th Weather Wing.

3.3.1. Flight Weather Briefings (175-1s) . Flight Weather Briefings can be requested by

phone, via fax, or in-person. The WF has established processes for disseminating products to

standard customers, and can work with transient aircrew to deliver products (although in-

person briefings are preferred). Updates can be obtained by contacting the WF at DSN 787-

7779/Commercial (937) 257-7779.

3.3.2. 445 th Airlift Wing Support. The 445AW provides global airlift capabilities for

military and humanitarian operations. The primary aircraft is the C-17. The WF provides a

planning Flimsy’s by 0900L on days where missions are scheduled. The WF also provides

MWPs to include 175-1s, hazard charts, route of flight, and other products as necessary.

When a Weather Watch, Warning, or Advisory is received, the 445th Command Post

implements a local checklist to notify all personnel and vehicles who require notification of

impending severe or inclement weather.

3.3.2.1. 445 th Airlift Wing Sensitivities. The 445AW has defined the following

sensitivities and response actions to adverse weather conditions.

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Table 3.1. 445 AW Weather Sensitivities.

Supported Agency: 445th Airlift Wing (445 AW)

Aircraft Type(s): C-17

Sensitivities: Customer Response(s):

1. Lightning within 10 NM of WPAFB A. Flightline personnel will remain aware of

current weather situation. All servicing

operations and outside work can continue

until lightning is observed within 5 NM of

WPAFB.

2. Lightning within 5 NM of WPAFB A. All outside servicing operations will

cease. All other work outside the aircraft

will be terminated. Work on the aircraft

interior can be accomplished as long as the

aircraft is properly grounded.

3. HF, UHF, and/or GPS degradation A. The Supervisor of Flying (SOF) will

review impacts to flying operations.

4. Crosswinds ≥ 25 knots on station A. The SOF will review impacts to flying

operations

3.3.3. National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC) Support. NAOC provides National

Command Authority with the means to conduct offensive and defensive operations at all

times. Primary aircraft is the E-4 based at Offutt AFB, Nebraska. Missions are frequently

staged out of WPAFB.

3.3.4. OPEN SKIES Support. The OPEN SKIES program provides aerial photography and

data collection in support of the Treaty on Open Skies. Weather support will be provided

IAW AFI 16-604 and local procedures. Primary U.S. aircraft is the OC-135 based at Offutt

AFB, Nebraska.

3.4. MISSIONWATCH. MISSIONWATCH is a deliberate process used for monitoring

terrestrial weather and/or the space environment for specific mission-limiting environmental

factors. The WF performs MISSIONWATCH duties by flight following each assigned flying

unit’s aircraft during their missions. Forecasters focus on weather that significantly deviates

from the original MEF with specific emphasis on mission limiting weather thresholds for the

specific mission or airframe. The weather forecaster on duty will advise the 445 AW/CP, (937)

257-3551, when any of the mission-impacting conditions occur that were not previously forecast.

NOTE: Transient aircrews will be notified by Base Operations when advised by the weather

forecaster.

3.4.1. WF Briefed Sorties. It is through MISSIONWATCH that MWP

amendments/updates are accomplished. During rapidly changing weather, the WF will

inform the OWS when weather products issued do not accurately reflect observed conditions

and impact flight safety. The WF will amend/update the MWP as necessary.

MISSIONWATCH will be conducted and logged. The WF will actively MISSIONWATCH

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all non-IFM WPAFB sorties. MISSIONWATCH is conducted and logged IAW local

procedures.

3.5. Post-Mission Analysis/Feedback. Aircrew should contact the WF with post-mission

information and/or follow-up support. The WF will utilize customer feedback (verbal feedback

or written forms) to improve internal processes and enhance training, forecast proficiency, and

product accuracy. Formal/informal feedback methods include:

3.5.1. Completion of 88 OSS/OSW Feedback worksheet.

3.5.2. Phone call or an e-mail to the WF.

3.5.3. Face-to-face feedback after briefing and/or mission completion.

3.6. Transient Aircrew Support. Weather forecasters will provide or arrange for weather

support for transient aircrews IAW duty priorities list Table 1.1. The WF may provide flight

weather briefings (175-1s), and/or updates to aircrews. Weather technicians may arrange for

weather support from the 15 OWS briefing cell when greater WF duty priorities take precedence.

The 15 OWS briefing cell can be reached at DSN 576-9755/9702, commercial (618) 256-

9755/9702, or via web access from the aircrew briefing terminal located in the flight planning

area:

(https://ows.scott.af.mil/wx_brief/index.cfm?UID=&BW=H&UF=O&AOR=1&USEHF=1).

3.7. Non-Flying Missions. The WF and 15 OWS support various non-flying missions (e.g., HQ

AFMC staff, Base Exercises, AFMC Tattoo, AF Marathon, etc.) by focusing on resource

protection and event safety, and issuing and broadcasting weather statements and WWAs.

Specific support to non-flying missions is identified in Chapter 4, Staff Services. Specialized

weather information can be provided to support any non-flying mission upon request. A

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)/Letter of Agreement (LOA) may be developed if the scope

of the non-flying mission support exceeds normal staff weather service support. Non-

governmental agencies should request weather information and support through 88 ABW Public

Affairs (PA).

3.8. Space Weather Impacts. WPAFB-supported missions have a wide-variety of parameters

affected by various space-weather conditions (High Frequency and Ultra High Frequency

communication, radar, Global Positioning System communications, etc.). The WF provides

standard or customized space impacts on MWPs. More detailed products are available at

https://ows.scott.af.mil/by_type/space/index.cfm.

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Chapter 4

STAFF SERVICES

4.1. General. Staff services are typically accomplished by WF staff and include meteorological

functions such as staff briefings, training and equipping the WF for day-to-day operations, and

establishing and maintaining relationships with base agencies to ensure WF support is optimal.

4.2. Staff Meteorological Functions . Staff meteorological functions aid leadership in

identifying and understanding specific weather and environmental impacts. The WF is available

to assist commanders and their staff in determining weather support requirements and impacts to

operations. Examples of staff meteorological functions provided are:

4.2.1. 88 ABW Staff Briefings. Staff weather briefings for the 88 ABW are provided each

week during staff meetings, or as required. Briefings may include satellite imagery, radar

imagery, daily weather story, and a 5-day WPAFB weather outlook with a focus on any

affected Wing events. Standard information including current conditions and 5-day forecast

are provided on the 15 OWS WPAFB tailored page at:

https://15ows.scott.af.mil/tailored_met/index.cfm?fuseaction=5_day&icao=KFFO&b_ic

ao=KFFO&unit_id=6&BW=H&UF=M&AOR=1&sc=151439. Additional staff weather

products may be produced in support of ABW requirements.

4.2.2. Emergency Operations Center (EOC)/Crisis Action Team (CAT) Briefings. The

WF will provide weather support as required for EOC/CAT briefings. This includes real-

world emergency, exercise, and deployment briefings. Each briefing will be tailored to

provide the appropriate weather intelligence required by the 88 ABW, the 445 AW, or other

supported organizations as required.

4.2.3. Pre-deployment Planning Briefings. The WF will provide pre-deployment weather

briefings as requested. Briefing content will be tailored to meet customer requirements. For

example, an aviation unit will receive weather impacts at the deployed location on their

flying mission, in addition to the standard surface weather information presented to ground

units.

4.2.4. Climatology Services. The WF will provide climatology information when requested

by DoD organizations located at, or supported by, WPAFB. Common products include

monthly and annual climatology products in support of 88 ABW, 88 ABW/CEG, and

research organization requirements.

4.3. Staff Integration Functions. WF leadership will ensure their unit is adequately resourced

to meet airfield, mission, and staff weather requirements. In addition to leadership and

management of unit activities, these unit members will also function as a direct interface with the

supported unit commander and staff, and provide direct support to command, control and

planning functions. Specific integration with base agencies is outlined below.

4.3.1. HQ AFMC, 88 ABW and 445 AW Plans and Programs (XP) Support. The WF

will assist in periodic exercises tailored to upcoming seasonal weather or other environmental

concerns, and will educate base agencies on the purpose and applicability of weather

watches, warnings and advisories. The WF will coordinate with supported organizations to

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document requirements, criteria, and thresholds for severe or inclement weather notification

to meet mission requirements.

4.3.2. AFMC (88 ABW) and 445 AW Command Center Support. The WF will notify

the AFMC Command Center and 445 AW Command Post whenever the base weather station

is evacuated and/or the AOL is activated. The WF will also ensure all WWAs are being

coordinated through the AFMC Command Center prior to release.

4.3.3. 88ABW/PA Support. The WF will support media requests and tours of the base

weather station for community groups and others when coordinated through the 88 ABW/PA

or other approved programs such as Job Shadow or youth development programs.

4.3.4. 88 OSS/OSA Support. The OWS or WF provides notification of all forecasted

weather watches, warnings, and advisories via JET, IDS-5, telephone, e-mail, or in-person

during airfield hours of operations. The WF will notify OSA whenever the base weather

station is evacuated and/or the AOL is activated.

4.3.4.1. Air Operations Board (AOB) Support. WF management will participate as a

member of the WPAFB AOB as directed in AFI 13-204 Volume III, Airfield Operations

Procedures and Programs.

4.3.5. 445 OSS Support. The WF provides notification of all weather watches, warnings,

and advisories via JET, telephone, and/or e-mail. The WF will notify the 445 OSS whenever

the base weather station is evacuated and/or the AOL is activated.

4.4. Reciprocal Support.

4.4.1. AFMC and 445 AW Command Post. Each Command Post will ensure

dissemination of weather watches, warnings, and advisories as outlined in Chapter 2 of this

instruction.

4.4.1.1. Each Command Post will notify the WF forecaster-on-duty immediately of all

aircraft emergencies, incidents, or accidents.

4.4.1.2. Each Command Post will run applicable Quick Reaction Checklists (QRCs) to

notify wing leadership and various base agencies of severe weather when notified by the

OWS or the WF.

4.4.2. AFMC Command Post. Activate sirens for a tornado when a tornado WARNING is

issued.

4.4.3. 88 ABW/PA. Coordinate tours of the WF by outside groups and functions.

4.4.4. 88 OSS/OSA.

4.4.4.1. Notify WF personnel of in-flight and ground emergencies, or mishaps, and

termination via the secondary crash network.

4.4.4.2. Ensure dissemination of weather warnings and advisories as outlined in Chapter

2 of this instruction.

4.4.4.3. Participate in CWW.

4.4.4.4. Notify the WF of all changes in active runway.

4.4.4.5. Notify the WF of any light setting changes on the high-intensity runway lights.

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4.4.4.6. Relay pilot weather reports to weather personnel.

4.4.4.7. Provide control tower orientation training for weather personnel.

4.4.4.8. Initiate radio checks to ensure proper PMSV operation.

4.4.5. Airfield Systems (88 OSS/OSM).

4.4.5.1. Provide, coordinate, or arrange for the installation, maintenance, and repair of all

weather communication and meteorological sensing equipment, except for the

communication and meteorological equipment maintained by contract (i.e., JET).

4.4.5.2. Ensure scheduled maintenance does not degrade METWATCH and/or

MISSIONWATCH performed by the WF during periods of inclement weather and notify

the weather technician prior to routine maintenance.

4.4.5.3. Utilize the restoration priorities for weather communications and meteorological

sensing equipment outlined in this document.

4.4.5.4. Notify the responsible service agents for weather communications and

meteorological sensing equipment outages.

4.4.5.5. Coordinate with off-base agencies to repair off base lines.

4.4.5.6. Perform necessary follow-up actions as required until full service is restored.

4.4.5.7. Ensure weather data and telephone circuits are assigned repair priorities.

4.4.5.8. Ensure established maintenance response times are met.

4.4.5.9. Ensure a 24-hour point of contact for reporting outages and assigning job control

numbers is available.

4.4.5.10. Coordinate with WF shift supervisor prior to taking any equipment down for

maintenance.

4.4.6. 88 ABW/CEG. Contact the WF Chief to request climatological data and specialized

support for energy conservation or other special projects on WPAFB. Provides CBNRE

requirements and ensures WF personnel are incorporated into CBRNE planning and response

operations.

4.4.7. 88 SFS. Promptly inform the WF of any hazardous weather reported by Security

Forces personnel (tornado, hail, snow/ice, etc.).

4.4.8. Supported Flying Units

4.4.8.1. Notify weather technician of current and planned weather alternates and any

special considerations affecting duration and route of flight operations (i.e., weather

categories, exercise/deployment considerations, etc.).

4.4.8.2. Notify the WF of required additional support as soon as it becomes known, to

include monitoring of alternate observations/forecasts, changes to low level routes,

refueling tracks, and tracking of weather conditions affecting local flying operations.

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4.4.8.3. Provide support items, maps, or data relevant to flight planning and operations.

Examples include but are not limited to flight schedules, low level routes, air refueling

tracks, Military Operations Areas (MOAs), and other items as required. These items

enhance mission planning, Operations Risk Management (ORM), and mission execution.

4.4.8.4. Provide timely notification of changes to scheduled operations affecting weather

support requirements as soon as the change is identified.

4.4.8.5. Provide PIREPS either directly to the WF or through the PMSV, tower, or

Supervisor of Flying (SOF) if weather cannot be contacted.

4.4.8.6. Provide feedback on weather briefings verbally, via e-mail, or via the WF online

or hard-copy survey.

4.4.8.7. Provide guidance (at least 2 weeks in advance) to the WF regarding any weather

training/educational requirements (or changes in requirements) if applicable.

4.4.9. Base Operations Flight Information Publication (FLIP) Manager. The FLIP

manager will submit FLIP updates provided by the WF to Air Force Flight Standards

Agency/Operating Location-D (AFFSA)/OL-D.

4.4.10. 88 AMDS/SGPB (Bioenvironmental Flight). Provide the base populace with the

Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) as required.

4.4.11. All Weather Support Recipients.

4.4.11.1. Notify the WF through proper chain of command or via the 88 OSS Workflow

mailbox when weather support requirements need to be added, changed, or removed from

supporting documentation.

4.4.11.2. Coordinate changes/additions to weather support requirements as soon as they

are foreseen.

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Chapter 5

WEATHER EQUIPMENT.

5.1. General. This chapter provides a brief description of the meteorological and

communications equipment used by the WF. Additionally, it provides information on backup

systems, maintenance, and restoring priorities.

5.2. Meteorological Equipment. The WF uses the FMQ-19, JET, DoD, Air Force,

commercial, and educational products and capabilities to determine the current state of the

atmosphere. These critical systems provide forecasters the most timely, accurate, and relevant

weather data and products available.

5.2.1. FMQ-19 (AMOS). The FMQ-19 samples, measures, and reports: temperature, wind

speed and direction, visibility, cloud base height and amount of coverage, pressure, liquid

equivalent precipitation accumulation, and ice accretion during freezing precipitation. These

measurements are processed to create properly formatted, fully automated observations that

comply with applicable various reporting standards and protocols defined in the Federal

Meteorological Handbook (FMH-1), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Weather Service (NWS), and military

reporting standards.

5.2.2. Gibson Ridge (GR) Radar Products. The WF utilizes the AFWA-procured GR

Doppler weather radar output as its primary source of radar data. Weather technicians use

GR to analyze complex radar signatures and obtain detailed information on storm intensity,

movement, internal circulation, and general wind flow. Weather technicians will routinely

incorporate the radar information into MEFs and resource protection products. Radar

products are used extensively during severe weather events.

5.3. Communications Equipment. The following systems are the backbone of the WF

communications network:

5.3.1. Joint Environmental Toolkit (JET). As discussed in Paragraph 2.5., of this

instruction, the JET is the primary system for disseminating forecast, observations, warnings,

watches, and advisories. Telephones are used as a backup for communicating or

disseminating WWAs.

5.3.2. PMSV Radio. The PMSV Radio (348.4MHz) allows the WF to communicate with

aircrews, both on the ground and flying, as well as tower personnel. If the PMSV is out-of-

service at WPAFB, aircrew can contact Grissom ARB, using the same frequency, 348.4 MHz

for assistance with gathering meteorological information.

5.3.3. Phones/Hotlines. Phones and hotlines serve primarily for rapidly passing along

critical, time-sensitive information, as well as to serve for backup services.

5.3.4. Local Area Network (LAN). The WF relies heavily on the LAN to improve the

timeliness and accuracy of weather intelligence to our customers.

5.4. Maintenance. Table 5.1. Equipment Maintenance List, identifies which organizations

provide preventive maintenance and repair weather and communications equipment.

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Table 5.1. Equipment Maintenance List.

Organization Equipment

88 OSS/OSM (Airfield Systems) FMQ-19

557th Weather Wing Fielded Systems JET

88 CG/SCPSC (Telephone Systems) Phones/Hotlines

88 CG (Comm Focal Point) LAN/Internet Connectivity

5.4.1. Restoral Priorities. Priorities for restoring critical systems are documented below in

the event natural disasters or any other anomaly, simultaneously impact weather systems and

capabilities. Significant indicates a situation where the equipment is completely inoperative,

while minimal means the equipment is in limited operation. The priorities for weather

equipment are listed in Table 5.2., below (priorities may be adjusted based on forecasted

weather):

Table 5.2. Equipment Restoral Priorities.

Equipment Organization Response Times Significant/Minimal

PMSV Radio 88 CG/ Immediate/24 hours

FMQ-19 88 OSS/OSM Immediate/24 hours

LAN/Internet

Connectivity/Phones/Hotlines/JET

88 CG/ Immediate/12 hours

5.5. Backup Power. In the event of a commercial power interruption, weather equipment

housed in Bldg 206 will automatically switch to backup generator power. Critical WF systems

are also supported by an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), that will provide extended power to

critical systems if both commercial and generator power are lost.

CHARLES W. JESSE JR., Maj, USAF

Commander (Acting)

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Attachment 1

GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION

References

AFI 10-206, Operational Reporting, 11 June 2014

AFI 10-2501, Air Force Emergency Management Program, 19 April 2016

AFI 11-202V3, General Flight Rules, 10 August 2016

AFI 11-2C-17V3, C-17 Operations Procedures, 16 November 2011

AFI 13-204V3, Airfield Operations Procedures and Programs, 1 September 2010

AFI 15-127, Weather Training, 20 January 2016

AFI 15-128, Air Force Weather Roles and Responsibilities, 7 February 2011

AFMAN 11-210, Instrument Refresher Program (IRP), 3 February 2005

AFMAN 15-111, Surface Weather Observations, 27 February 2013

AFMAN 15-124, Meteorological Codes, 28 February 2013

AFMAN 15-129V1, Air and Space Weather Operations- Characterization, 6 December 2011

AFMAN 15-129V2, Air and Space Weather Operations-Exploitation, 7 December 2011

AFMAN 33-363, Management of Records, 1 March 2008

AFPD 15-1, Weather Operations, 12 November 2015

WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI 13-201, Airfield Operations, 25 June 2013

WPAFB Installation Data Page,

https://ows.scott.af.mil/ows_unique/15/TECH_REF/MOAS/MOAS/Docs/Wright-

Patterson%20Data%20Page.xlsx

Adopted Forms

DD Form 175-1, Flight Weather Briefing

88 OSS Form 445 REV 2 OCT 05, Mission Execution Forecast

Abbreviations and Acronyms

ABW—Air Base Wing

ACC—Air Combat Command

AF—Air Force

AF-WEBS—Air Force Weather Web Services

AFB—Air Force Base

AFFSA—Air Force Flight Standards Agency

AFI—Air Force Instruction

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AFMAN—Air Force Manual

AFPD—Air Force Policy Directive

AFRIMS—Air Force Records Information Management System

AFWA—Air Force Weather Agency

AGL—Above Ground Level

AIREP—Air Report

ALSTG—-Altimeter Setting

ALT—-Alternate (Airfield)

AMOS—-Automated Observing System

AOB—-Air Operations Board

AOL—Alternate Operating Location

ATC—Air Traffic Control

AUTO—Automated Observation

AW—Airlift Wing

BECMG—Becoming (Terminal Forecast)

CBRNE—-Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High-yield Explosive

CDM—Chemical Downwind Message

CEG—Civil Engineering Group

CONUS—Continental United States

COOP—Continuity of Operations Plan

CP—Command Post

CS—Communications Group

CS—Communications Squadron

CU—Characterization Unit

CWW—Cooperative Weather Watch

DSN—Defense Switch Network

DTRA—Defense Threat Reduction Agency

EU—Exploitation Unit

EWO—Emergency War Orders

FAA—Federal Aviation Administration

FLIP—Flight Information Publication

FMH—Federal Meteorological Handbook

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FMQ—Fixed Meteorological Equipment

GT—Greater Than

GTE—Greater Than or Equal To

HF—High Frequency

HIRL—High Intensity Runway Lights

IAW—In Accordance With

IDS—Information Dissemination System

INS—Inches

JET—Joint Environmental Toolkit

KT—Knots

LAN—Local Area Network

LLWS—Low Level Wind Shear

LOA—Letter of Agreement

LOCAL—Aviation Selected Local Weather Report

LT—Less Than

LTE—Less Than or Equal To

MEF—Mission Execution Forecast

METAR—Aviation Routine Weather Report

METSAT—Meteorological Satellite

METWATCH—Meteorological Watch

MHz—Megahertz

MISSIONWATCH—Mission Watch

MOA—Memorandum of Agreement

MWP—Mission Weather Product

NAOC—National Airborne Operations Center

NM—Nautical Miles

NWS—National Weather Service

OL-D—Operating Location-D

OMO—One Minute Observation

OPORD—Operations Order

OPR—Office of Primary Responsibility

ORM—Operations Risk Management

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OSAM—Airfield Management

OSAT—Tower

OSS—Operations Support Squadron

OWS—Operational Weather Squadron

PA—Public Affairs

PIREP—Pilot Report

PMSV—Pilot-to-Metro Service

QRC—Quick Reaction Checklist

RDS—Records Disposition Schedule

RP—Resource Protection

RVR—Runway Visual Range

RVRNO—Runway Visual Range Unavailable

RW—Reconnaissance Wing

RWY—Runway

SE—Safety Office

SFS—Security Forces Squadron

SM—Statute Mile

SOF—Supervisor of Flying

SOP—Standard Operating Procedure

SPECI—Aviation Selected Special Weather Report

SWAP—Severe Weather Action Procedures

SWS—Special Weather Statement

TAF—Terminal Aerodrome Forecast

TEMPO—Temporary Condition (Terminal Forecast)

TS—Thunderstorm

TWR—Tower

VCTS—Vicinity Thunderstorms

VIS—Visibility

VRB—Variable (Wind Direction)

WBGT—Wet Bulb Globe Temperature

WF—Weather Flight

WPAFB—Wright Patterson AFB

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WSHFT—Wind Shift

WWA—Weather Watch, Warning or Advisory

XP—Wing Plans and Programs

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Attachment 2

SPECIAL WEATHER OBSERVATION CRITERIA

A2.1. A Special weather observation will be taken and disseminated for the criteria listed

below. Details are included in the WF’s local Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for

SPECIAL Observations.

A2.1.1. Visibility. When the prevailing visibility decreases below or, if below, increases to

equal or exceeds any of the values listed below:

Table A2.1. Visibility Levels.

Visibility

(Statue

Miles)

*3 2 ¾ 2 ½ *2 1 3/4 1 5/8 *1

½ 1 3/8 1 ¼ *1 *3/4 *½

*#¼

Notes: Items in bold/underline indicate criteria found in the high and low altitude

FLIPs.

^ ATC CWW only

* AFMAN 15-111 Standard

# Blizzard Warning criteria/verification

-- When notified by control tower that tower visibility has decreased to LT or, if

below, increased to equal or exceed 1, 2, o3 3 SM and the control tower differs from

the surface prevailing visibility

A2.1.2. Ceiling. When the ceiling goes below or, if below, increases to equal or exceeds

any of the values listed below:

Table A2.2. Ceiling Levels.

Height

(feet) *3,000 *2,000 *1,500 *1,000 *800 *700 600 *500 #400 *300 *200 100

Notes: Items in bold/underline indicate criteria found in the high and low altitude FLIPs.

* AFMAN 15-111 Standard

# Open Skies (OC-135) Takeoff Minimum

A2.1.3. Sky Condition. A layer of clouds (it does not have to be a ceiling) or obscuring

phenomena aloft is observed below 800 feet and no layer was reported below this height in

the previous METAR or SPECI.

A2.1.4. Wind.

A2.1.4.1. Shifts. A directional change of 45 degrees or more in less than 15 minutes

with sustained winds of 10 knots or more throughout the wind shift.

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A2.1.4.2. Squall. A strong wind characterized by a sudden onset in wind speed

increasing at least 16 knots and sustained at 22 knots or more for at least 1 minute. A

SPECI is not required to report a squall if one is currently in progress.

A2.1.5. Volcanic Ash. Eruption or volcanic ash cloud first noted. Only a single-element

special observation is needed.

A2.1.6. Thunderstorm.

A2.1.6.1. Begins (Note: A Special observation is not required to report the beginning of

a new thunderstorm if one is currently reported as in progress at the airfield).

Thunderstorms begin with Vicinity Thunderstorms - VCTS (5-10 nm from station) or

Thunderstorms on station – TS (0-4 nm).

A2.1.6.2. Ends (Note: 15 minutes after the last occurrence of criteria for a

thunderstorm; an audible sound of thunder, lightning within five NM of the airfield, etc.).

A2.1.7. Precipitation.

A2.1.7.1. Hail begins or ends.

A2.1.7.2. Freezing precipitation or ice pellets begins, ends, or changes intensity.

A2.1.7.3. Any other type of precipitation begins or ends. Note: Except for freezing rain,

freezing drizzle, hail, and ice pellets, a Special observation is not required for changes in

type (e.g., drizzle changing to snow grains) or the beginning or ending of one type while

another is in progress (e.g., snow changing to rain and snow).

A2.1.8. Tornado, Funnel Cloud, or Waterspout. Single-element special observation is

needed.

A2.1.8.1. Observed and/or disappears from sight.

A2.1.9. Runway Visual Range (RVR). WF will provide RVR output according to the

specifications listed in Table A2.3.

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Table A2.3. RVR Reporting.

Runway Visual Range (RVR)

- Prevailing visibility first observed < 1SM/1600 meters, again when prevailing visibility goes

above 1SM/1600 meters.

- RVR for active runway decrease to less than or, if below, increase to equal or exceed:

- *6,000 feet

- 5, 500 feet

- *5,000 feet

- *4,000 feet

- *2,400 feet

- *2,000 feet

- *#1,600 feet

- *1,200 feet

- *1,000 feet

- *600 feet

Notes: Items in bold/underline indicate criteria found in the high and low altitude FLIPs.

* AFMAN 15-111 Standard

# Open Skies (OC-135) Takeoff Minimum

- All published RVR minima applicable to the runway in use.

- RVR is first determined as unavailable (RVRNO) for the runway is use, and when it is first

determined that the RVRNO report is no longer applicable, provided conditions for reporting

RVR exist.

A2.1.10. Nuclear Accident. When notified of a real-world nuclear accident, take and

disseminate (locally and longline) a SPECI. Append the remark "AEROB" as the last

remark on the SPECI.

A2.1.11. Resumption of Observing Services. Take, disseminate, and record a SPECI

within 15 minutes after returning to duty following a break in hourly coverage, if a METAR

was not filed as scheduled during the 15-minute period.

A2.1.12. Aircraft Mishap. When notified of an aircraft mishap, the WF will check the

latest AN/FMQ-19 observation (i.e., METAR/SPECI/OMO (one minute observation) and

perform augmentation/back-up if required. When operating in a back-up mode WF will

immediately take a SPECI observation IAW AFI 15-111.

A2.1.13. Miscellaneous. Any other meteorological situation that in the weather technician’s

opinion is critical.

A2.1.13.1. Upon request from the ATC tower.

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A2.1.13.2. Ten minutes prior to the landing or departure of Air Force One.

A2.1.13.3. Wind observations when suspected FMQ-19 erroneous readings. The

weather specialist will inform Air Traffic Control (ATC) once the FMQ-19 winds are

suspected to be erroneous. If no SPECI criteria are met during the period of suspect

winds, the weather specialist will disseminate a full element special observation at 15, 30,

and 45 minutes past the hour for ATC to use until the FMQ-19 is deemed reliable again.

A2.1.13.4. ALERT WEATHER OBSERVATION. Take and disseminate an ALERT

WEATHER OBSERVATION within 1 minute of alert notification, either verbal or by

the flashing alert beacon in the operations area.

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Attachment 3

FORECAST SPECIFICATION AND AMENDMENT CRITERIA

A3.1. Specification Criteria. The TAF will specify the time of occurrence, duration, and the

intensity (if applicable) of expected weather conditions. The following weather criteria will be

specified in TAFs if expected to occur during the forecast period:

A3.1.1. Ceiling and/or visibility is forecast to decrease less than or if below, is forecast to

equal or exceed any of the following levels:

Table A3.1. Standard Specification and Amendment for Ceiling and Visibility.

CIGS VIS Category Reference

Ceiling or Visibility observed or expected to decrease to less than, or if below, increase to

equal or exceed:

GTE 2000 FT GTE 3 SM (4800

M) E AFI 11-202 Vol III

GTE 1000 FT GTE 2 SM (3200

M) D AFI 11-202 Vol III

GTE 700 FT GTE 2 SM (3200

M) C AFI 11-202 Vol III

GTE 200 FT GTE 1/2 SM (800

M) B AFI 11-202 Vol III

LT 200 FT LT 1/2 SM (800 M) A AFI 11-202 Vol III

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Table A3.2. Standard Specification and Amendment Criteria Other Than Ceiling and

Visibility.

Specification Amendment

Surface Wind Speeds Specify wind speed changes of

10 knots or more

Amend if the difference

between the predominant

wind speed (or gust) and the

forecast wind speed (or

gust) is 10 knots or more.

Surface Wind Gusts Specify onset, duration, and

intensity of wind gusts

Amend if wind gust speed is

in error by 10 knots or more

Surface Wind Direction Specify a change in prevailing

wind direction of more than 30

degrees when the predominant

wind speed or gusts are

expected to be 15 knots or

greater.

Amend if prevailing wind

speed is in error by more

than 30 degrees when the

predominant wind speed or

gusts are expected to be 15

knots or greater.

Icing, not associated with

thunderstorms, from the

surface to 10,000 feet AGL

Onset, duration , type and

intensity

Amend if beginning or

ending of icing meets,

exceeds, or decreases to less

than moderate (or greater)

intensity and was

improperly specified in the

forecast.

Turbulence (for Cat II

aircraft), not associated with

thunderstorms, from the

surface to 10,000 feet AGL

(Weather Category II Aircraft)

Onset, duration, type and

intensity

Amend if the beginning or

ending of turbulence meets,

exceeds, or decreases to less

than moderate (or greater)

intensity and was

improperly specified in the

forecast.

Weather Warning Criteria

(that can be specified in the

TAF) - including non-

convective low-level wind

shear.

NOTE: Watches issued for an

area may or may not be

specified in a TAF-coded

forecast for an installation

depending on situation. TS

WILL be specified in the TAF

Occur, or are expected to occur,

during the forecast period.

A forecast WW has been issued

(ensures consistency between

forecast WW and/or WA and

the TAF)

Amend if weather warning

criteria occurs, or is

expected to occur, during

the forecast period, but was

not specified in the forecast.

Was specified in the

forecast, but is no longer

occurring or expected to

occur during the forecast

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if a lightning watch is issued.

period

Altimeter Setting Specify the onset of altimeter

settings meeting or exceeding

31.00 INS or altimeter settings

28.00 INS or less. If less than

the threshold specify when

altimeter settings equal or

exceed the thresholds, if greater

than, specify when altimeter

settings will decrease to equal

or less than the thresholds.

Amend if the altimeter

setting meets, or is expected

to meet the threshold and

was not specified in forecast

Forecast Weather Advisory

Criteria (issued for TAF

amendable criteria) -

including non-convective low-

level wind shear.

NOTE: Advisories issued for

an area may or may not be

specified in a TAF-coded

forecast for an installation

depending on situation.

Occur, or are expected to occur,

during the forecast period.

A forecast WA has been issued

(ensures consistency between

forecast WW and/or WA and

the TAF)

Amend if the forecast

weather advisory criteria is

improperly specified, occurs

and was not forecast, or is

no longer expected to occur

Thunderstorms Specify onset, duration, type

and intensity of thunderstorms

at the aerodrome complex

Amend if the start or end

time of the thunderstorm is

incorrectly specified

Temporary Conditions Specify the onset and duration

of temporary conditions

1. Amend if temporary

conditions become

predominant.

2. Amend if temporary

conditions do not occur as

forecast.

3. Amend if temporary

conditions are no longer

expected to occur.

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Changes to Predominant

Conditions

Specify the onset, duration, and

intensity (if applicable) of

changes to predominant

conditions

Amend if forecast changes

conditions occur before the

specified period of change,

do not occur, or are no

longer expected to occur.

Representative Conditions Amend if forecast

conditions are not

considered representative of

the characterized state of the

atmosphere and an

amendment improves

safety, flight planning,

operational efficiency, or

assists in-flight aircraft

A3.2. Amendment Criteria.

A3.2.1. TAF Amendments. Forecasters will ensure the TAF is representative of expected

or actual conditions. Forecasters will coordinate TAF amendments with the 15 OWS or

make changes to the TAF, if the WF is supporting the OWS during a COOP or real-world

emergency IAW Table A3.1 and A3.2:

A3.2.1.1. Temporary Conditions:

A3.2.1.1.1. Amend if temporary conditions become predominant.

A3.2.1.1.2. Amend if temporary conditions do not occur as forecast.

A3.2.1.1.3. Amend if temporary conditions are no longer expected to occur.

A3.2.1.2. Changes to Predominant Conditions. Amend if forecast changes conditions

occur before the specified period of change, do not occur, or are no longer expected to

occur.

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Attachment 4

CUSTOMER RESPONSE MATRIX

Table A4.1. Customer Response Matrix.

Weather Phenomena Desired

Lead Time

Impact Customer Action

Tornado 10 min Personal

injury/death

Equipment

damage

Seek shelter

Moderate Thunderstorms

-Hail ", LT 1/2"

-Winds GTE 35kts, LT 50kts

60 min Personal injury/

Equipment

damage

Seek shelter; hangar or

divert aircraft

Severe Thunderstorms

-Damaging Hail GTE 1/2"

-Damaging Winds GTE 50kts

90 min Personal injury/

Equipment

damage

Seek shelter; hangar or

divert aircraft

Strong Winds

-Winds GTE 35kts, LT 50kts

60 min Personal injury/

Equipment

damage

Seek shelter; review

aircraft sensitivities;

adjust time of

operations

Damaging Winds

-Winds GTE 50kts

60 min Personal injury/

Equipment

damage

Seek shelter; review

aircraft sensitivities;

adjust time of

operations

Freezing Precipitation

-Any intensity

60 min Hazardous

movement for

personnel/eqpmt

Delay or cease

operations. Activate

snow removal plan

Heavy Snow

-Accumulation GTE 2” in 12 hrs

60 min Hazardous

movement for

personnel/eqpmt

Delay or cease

operations. Activate

snow removal plan.

Blizzard

-Duration GTE 3 hrs

-Winds/Gusts GTE 30 kts

-Considerable falling/blowing snow

-Visibility frequently LTE 1/4SM

60 min Flight hazard

Equipment

damage

Cease unnecessary

flying; secure or

hangar aircraft; secure

light objects outside

Heavy Rain

-GTE 2” in 12 hrs

60 min Possible airfield

and base

CEG assess impacts/

institute action plans

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42 WRIGHTPATTERSONAFBI15-101 19 MAY 2017

flooding

Observed Lightning w/in 10 NM N/A Personal

injury/death

Delay operations

Cease flight-line work;

clear pool/golf course/

munitions

Observed Lightning w/in 5 NM N/A Personal

injury/death

Delay operations

Cease flight-line work;

clear pool/golf course/

munitions

Crosswinds > 15 knots but < 25

knots

Observed Flight hazard Cease take-

off/landings for small

private aircraft; no

touch and goes

Low Level Wind Shear Observed Delay or cease

operations

Delay or cease take-

off/landing

evaluate shear

conditions

Equivalent Wind Chill Temp –20 to

–29F

Observed Personal injury

Slow/delay

outside work

Work 45 minutes;

Rest 15 minutes in

heated area

Equivalent Wind Chill Temp –30 to

–39F

Observed Personal

injury/death

Slow/delay

outside work

Work 30 minutes;

Rest 30 minutes in

heated area

Equivalent Wind Chill Temp –40 to

–49F

Observed Personal

injury/death

Slow/delay

outside work

Work 15 minutes;

Rest 45 minutes in

heated area

Equivalent Wind Chill Temp –50F

or colder

Observed Personal

injury/death Stop

outside work

Stay indoors

Ice Pellets Observed Reduces de-icing

effectiveness

Evaluate de-icing

effectiveness

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Attachment 5

FLYING UNIT MISSION LIMITING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Table A5.1. Flying Units Supported.

Organization Mission MWP Provider

445 AW (C-17) Provides worldwide airlift for cargo and personnel. WF

A5.1. Mission Limiting Thresholds.

A5.1.1. Airframe-Specific Weather Limitations. Tables A5.2, and A5.3 provide the

general airframe weather limitations based on AFI 11-202V3, General Flight Rules and the

limitations from aircraft specific AFI 11-2 instructions.

Table A5.2. USAF General Flight Rules Weather Limitations for Fixed-Wing Aircraft.

(Ref: AFI 11-202V3, General Flight Rules)

Weather Condition Impact Customer Action

Cig/Vis < 2,000/3SM Alternate required Add fuel to allow divert

Cig/Vis <1,000/2SM,

if MAJCOM approved

Alternate required Add fuel to allow divert

Cig/Vis < 500 / 2 Terminal not suitable for alternate Select another alternate

Table A5.3. C-17 Operations and Training Weather Sensitivities.

(Ref: AFI 11-2C-17, Volume 3, C-17 Operations Procedures)

Maneuver Ceiling/Visibility Minimums Other Restriction

Surface Crosswind

Takeoff/Landing) GT 25KT Delay or proceed to ALT

Touch-and-go landings

(Para 9.2.)

1. Minimum ceiling of 300 ft

AGL and RVR 40 (3/4SM) vis

2. Minimum ceiling of 300 AGL

and RVR 4000 (3/4 SM) vis

Maximum crosswind is 25

knots.

Night Vision (NVG)

(Para 9.10.)

1. Minimum ceiling of 300 ft

AGL and RVR 40 (3/4SM) vis

2. Minimum ceiling of 300 AGL

and RVR 4000 (3/4 SM) vis

Maximum crosswind is 15

knots.