Overview

The Local Climate Analysis Tool (LCAT) allows users to explore local climate variability in relation to global climate trends and to investigate the linkages between local climate, weather, and water events. Intended to enhance local climate expertise of National Weather Service (NWS) staff, LCAT analyzes available climate data sets (provided and recommended by NOAA) via the NWS Virtual Lab platform, helping users conduct local climate or correlation studies through a scientifically credible process. LCAT also provides avenues for scientific discussion and idea exchange; it allows users to query available studies, interact with other users, and upload study results for review and publication purposes. LCAT facilitates decision support in the realm of climate questions, and can be used as guidance in generating local climate studies and/or products. As an internal NOAA tool, LCAT is currently available for all NOAA users; non-NOAA users may use LCAT, but must have a NOAA-sponsored partner apply on their behalf to gain access to this tool.

Phase of Adaptation: Awareness, Assessment

Audience

National Weather Service Staff, NOAA Affiliates, Local weather forecasters, Scientists, Local planners