WIQ Weather Centre - New Features November 2024

Author: Chris Nitsopoulos

Posted on: Friday, November 1st, 2024, 10:41:50 AM

The Weather IQ Weather Centre has some exciting new updates as of November 1!

New Features:

• Automatic Warnings Overlay: Now, you can overlay and auto-update weather warnings directly onto the Weather Centre mapping interface! This new feature makes it easy to stay ahead of any warnings. Be sure to watch our quick tutorial video below, packed with tips and tricks on how to make the most of this feature.

 

• Addition of the ADFD Model/Data: We’re thrilled to announce the integration of the Australian Digital Forecast Database (ADFD) into the Weather Centre, enhancing our ability to offer Australia-specific, high-resolution weather data.

 

 

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How to access warnings on the WIQ Weather Centre

 

 

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Overview of the ADFD Data

The ADFD, a premier high-resolution dataset from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), is developed specifically for Australia. It combines outputs from the BoM’s Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, real-time observations (from satellites, radars, and ground stations), and global data sources. This makes the ADFD a powerful tool for anyone needing hyper-local weather insights.

 

Resolution:

• Horizontal: With a resolution of ~6 km, the ADFD captures intricate details of local weather patterns across Australia.
• Vertical: It features a variable vertical resolution that adapts to different weather elements, providing critical insights into atmospheric layers important for weather forecasting.

 

Update Frequency: The ADFD updates twice daily at approximately 0600 and 1800 AEST. These updates ensure that you’re always working with fresh, accurate data, incorporating the latest observational inputs and model adjustments.

 

Comparison with Global Models found on the WIQ Weather Centre:

Model	Horizontal Resolution	Vertical Resolution	Update Frequency	Regional Suitability
ADFD	~6 km	Variable	2 times daily	Optimized for Australia; captures localized events effectively
ECMWF HRES	9 km	137 levels	4 times daily	High global accuracy; slightly less specific for local phenomena
GFS (NOAA)	13 km	64 levels	4 times daily	General global patterns; less targeted for specific regions
ACCESS-G3	12 km	70 levels	4 times daily	Australian-focused model, ideal for regional forecasting
ICON (DWD)	13 km	90 levels	4 times daily	Reliable global model; regional precision less detailed
UK Met Office	10 km	70 levels	4 times daily	Comprehensive global insights; region-specific details limited
ACCESS-C	1.5 km	High	4 times daily	Australian-specific, crucial for short-term forecasting, especially in severe weather

 

 

Key Advantages of the ADFD:

• High Resolution: The ADFD's ~6 km resolution offers finer detail over Australia than many global models, making it ideal for accurate local forecasting.
• Update Frequency: Although updated twice daily, certain parameters within the ADFD may refresh more frequently, so always check the model’s timestamp.
• Localized Accuracy: Tailored for Australia’s unique climate and terrain, the ADFD captures local weather with unmatched precision, offering a distinct advantage over global models for regional applications.

 

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Pro Tip for boaties:
Use the ADFD data to isolate a day that looks favourable (low swell/wave heights and light winds but then make sure to verify this using the ACCESS C models late the night before you go out or even the morning of your trip. The combination of BOTH sets of models should almost surely keep you out of trouble. If one of the two shows poor conditions, then stay home or stay in the creeks. 

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The ADFD’s high-resolution, localized insights make it a top choice for precise Australian weather forecasting. Check it out on the Weather IQ Weather Centre today for a new level of detail in your forecasts!

 

 

To select the ADFD model you need to access the 'Models' Layer and click on the ADFD from the models sub type. Please see the image below:

 

 

The Weather IQ Weather Centre is available as a subscription option from Weather IQ. To join one of our subscription options head to https://weatheriq.com.au/sign-up 

Weather IQ Product Comparison (Effective November 1, 2024)

Feature	✨ Eyewall Pro ($69.95/yr)	Eyewall Lite ($39.95/yr)	Weather Centre ($39.95/yr)	Eyewall Basic ($32.95/yr)	YoutTube Monthly Members ($14.95/month)
Daily Wet Season comprehensive weather forecasts for QLD	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️
Days 1&2 regional QLD forecasts (Nov–Apr)	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️
Top End & Territory forecasts (Twice weekly)	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️
Access to State Weather Pages, Lightning Maps, Meteograms	✔️	✔️	❌	❌	❌
TC & Major weather event daily forecasts	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️
Month and Season Ahead video forecasts	✔️	✔️	❌	✔️	✔️