Forecasters handbook for extreme southwestern California based on short term climatological approximations. Part I, The marine layer and its effect on precipitation and heating

"The varied terrain of southern California and its proximity to the Pacific Ocean results in many unique forecast challenges in southern California, therefore unique approaches for diagnosing and forecasting in this area are necessary. The purpose of this Forecasters Handbook is to present a variety of approaches to not only understand the processes involved in the area, but to somehow connect them to methods of forecasting for the area. A key component of this study is to employ short term climatological approximations (STCA). Data sets of generally less than 10 years are found to at least give a reasonable approximation of conditions expected with some meteorological parameters. Forecaster hints are 'quick and dirty' guidance for the forecaster to get an initial idea of what to expect for certain parameters (although, not guaranteed to work in all cases), and more information is embedded in the discussions. Also for more detailed information the references can be consulted. It is hoped that this information helps to increase the understanding of the phenomena that occur in the extreme southwestern corner of our nation and also help to improve the ability to forecast them"--Abstract. Ivory J. Small. Title from title screen (viewed on May 24, 2010). "October 2006." Mode of access: World Wide Web. System requirements: Internet browser; Adobe Acrobat Reader. Includes bibliographical references (p. 37-39).