PRECIPITABLE WATER

Precipitable Water is simply the amount of water contained in an imaginary “column” of air, stretching from the surface up through the top of the atmosphere. High values give a nice indication of where heavy rain may occur and conversely low values infer a much dryer air mass.

Note how on the national map of precipitable water (top map), values across the central part of the country are high. Much of this available moisture has stemmed in from the Gulf from a constant southerly component to the wind field. The zoomed in map (middle) showcases just how much water is in place over much of central Oklahoma.

Lastly, a quick check of satellite data confirms that not only is the area moisture rich, but thunderstorm activity is present and developing along boundaries from previous bouts of convection as well as along a weak frontal barrier which is providing a focal point.

Last year I remember constantly starting out each weathercast with a look at the present burn bans. At one point the entire state of OK was banned from burning. 2007, as of now, is a much different year. Unfortunately, the rain has been somewhat feast or famine; many communities are probably saying “enough is enough”!

Posted by Ted Zarras at 11:30 AM