We began day 1 of our project by visiting the local National Weather Service Forecast Office in Chanhassen. We were shown around by Todd Krause, a Warning Coordination Meteorologist.
Each Forecast Office is responsible for releasing two weather balloons daily, which are used to gather information about the atmosphere. This information is used to forecast weather, predict severe storms, and can also be used to contribute to research. We had the privilege of observing the launch of one of these balloons.
This is the balloon as it was being inflated with hydrogen
This is the balloon being launched
Next, we followed Todd back inside, where we had the opportunity to view the telemetry being returned from the balloon:
We also spent some time talking to Todd about chasing, the role spotters have in the prediction and detection of severe weather, and the crucial role they play in providing enhanced lead time on things like tornado warnings, which can save lives.
After talking with Todd, we went home to pack, and left later that night for our first night on the road, to Des Moines!
