View Full Version : Accuracy of NOAA
Is NOAA pretty accurate as far as weather temps go? For instance, it says Newfound Gap, NC is going to be in the 40s next weekend overnight...is this reliable?
Reason I ask is I'm going to that area this weekend and I want to take my 40 degree bag, but everytime I've been to the smokies around this time of year it's been cold as ****.
MTS
Bulldawg
10-06-2008, 22:15
I'd say they are pretty good, but you gotta wait until 2 or 3 days out. I would not rely on a forecast made that far out.
I'd say they are pretty good, but you gotta wait until 2 or 3 days out. I would not rely on a forecast made that far out.I agree with this. The good thing about the Smokys reports from the NWS is that there are official reporting stations in several locations in the park. Here is a link for that: Smoky Mountain Reports (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/product.php?site=NWS&issuedby=MRX&product=RTP&format=CI&version=1&glossary=0)
I know you are talking about forecasts, but you can check to see the actual temps leading up to your hike. BTW it was 26F on Mt. LeConte on Oct. 4th.
I'd say they are pretty good, but you gotta wait until 2 or 3 days out. I would not rely on a forecast made that far out.
Oh, I definitly agree. I just wanted to make sure it would be a good guide to go off of.
I agree with this. The good thing about the Smokys reports from the NWS is that there are official reporting stations in several locations in the park. Here is a link for that: Smoky Mountain Reports (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/product.php?site=NWS&issuedby=MRX&product=RTP&format=CI&version=1&glossary=0)
I know you are talking about forecasts, but you can check to see the actual temps leading up to your hike. BTW it was 26F on Mt. LeConte on Oct. 4th.
Thanks for the link, I have actually been looking at that as well...I'm going to compare the forcast and actual this week and see what happens.
On the other hand, I may just take my 15 degree bag b/c if I don't, Karma will get me and it will be colder than usual:rolleyes:. I'll burn up, but at least I'll be safe.
They don’t seem to do too good here, you must have better weather people then we do.
rlharris
10-07-2008, 07:40
Little bit off your target area, but the Whites are renown for their micro climates and the NWS tends to paint the area with a broad brush. The Fairbanks Museum in St. Johnsbury, VT, does a better job for Vermont and northern New Hampshire. Their recreational forecast is available over Vermont Public Radio and on their website www.eyeonthesky.org