These maps display climatological values of forecast 2-meter temperature, sea surface temperature, and precipitation at multiple leads and start times during the year for a selection of climate models. The climatological base period is 1982-2010 for CFSv2 and CCSM4, and 1981-2010 for CMC1, CMC2, GFDL-CM2p5-FLOR-A06, and NASA-GMAO.
Use the drop-down menus at the top of the page to select the model, variable, and monthly or seasonal lead. Mouse over the map to select the forecast start time from a control that appears just above the map. Select a combination of the forecast start time and the monthly or 3-month seasonal lead time to produce a map for a target month or season of the year. The forecast starts occur at the beginning of a month of the year, and adding together the forecast start time and the lead time (monthly or 3-month seasonal lead) determines the month or season for which the forecast is valid.
For example, the combination of a forecast start time of 0000 1 Sep and a monthly lead time of 0.5 months (the first monthly lead) will produce a forecast map valid for the month of September. For a seasonal forecast, the combination of a forecast start time of 0000 1 Sep and a 3-month seasonal lead of 1.5 months (the first seasonal lead) will produce a forecast map valid for the September-November 3-month season. The combination of a forecast start time of 0000 1 Sep and a 3-month seasonal lead of 2.5 months (the second seasonal lead) will produce a forecast map valid for the October-December season. The climatological forecast target time (climatological month or season -- the displayed year of 1960 or 1961 is not relevant -- see the climatological base periods above) and start time will appear at the bottom of the map.
Return to the menu page: Click the blue link called “Portal” at the top left corner of the page.
Contact help@iri.columbia.edu with any technical questions or problems with this Map Room.