Comparisons of NUCAPS and Model Data Lapse Rates...

So, it can be refreshing to see when NUCAPS data agree with model data, but I'm often more interested in those cases where there are differences, and potentially important differences.  Notice in the images below the comparisons between NUCAPS 850-500 mb lapse rates and various model data.

Image 1. 850-500 mb lapse rates from NUCAPS (upper left), HRRR (upper right), GFS (lower left), and NAM40 (lower right), valid ~18 UTC 23 May 2019

Notice the relatively large differences that stretch SW to NE from central W VA into New England.  Taking a look at nearby radar imagery, it's clear why this area had significantly lower lapse rate values in the NUCAPS data than the models; a line of showers and thunderstorms were present along this path of lower values that was displayed in the NUCAPS gridded data (Image 2).

Image 2.  850-500 mb lapse rates from NUCAPS (upper left), HRRR (upper right), GFS (lower left), and NAM40 (lower right), along with 0.5 Refl from the KCCX radar, valid ~18 UTC 23 May 2019

Of course, the NUCAPS retrievals certainly would have been affected by this area of denser clouds and precipitation.  Nevertheless, lapse rates would be affected (lowered) by the convection in those locations, which is depicted in the NUCAPS data only.  So, the lack of this feature in the models would then affect their forecast in this region going forward.  It will be interesting to see the NUCAPS forecast data in this type of scenario.  In fact, one of the forecasters here is taking a look.

-Kris W