Background
The Federal Highway Administration's Road Weather Management Program aims to enhance Transportation Management Centers (TMCs) by integrating weather information into their operations This integration enables state and local transportation agencies to efficiently manage traffic, deploy maintenance crews, and respond swiftly to weather-related issues affecting the transportation system With access to accurate weather forecasts and insights into the impact of weather on road conditions, TMC operators can make informed, proactive decisions for infrastructure management To support this integration, the FHWA has developed a comprehensive self-evaluation guide, helping TMCs assess their current weather integration levels and formulate a strategic plan for improved integration.
Purpose
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) Statewide Transportation Management Center (TMC) was selected by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to evaluate and enhance weather information integration strategies using a provided electronic Guide This Guide assists users in identifying potential strategies to improve TMC operations, particularly in managing extreme weather events across the state Due to their commitment to optimizing weather data usage, WYDOT was tasked with reviewing the Guide and offering feedback for its improvement Additionally, WYDOT developed a comprehensive weather integration plan as part of this initiative.
WYDOT’s Traffic Management Center (TMC) operates statewide, prompting the development of a comprehensive weather integration strategy for Wyoming This initiative aims to support developers in finalizing the design of the FHWA’s Weather Integration Self-Evaluation and Planning Guide.
TMC Overview
In the Fall of 2008, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) launched its statewide Traffic Management Center (TMC), located in the basement of the Qwest building at 6101 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne, Wyoming, just a mile north of the WYDOT headquarters This facility integrates the operations of emerging Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and serves as a new dispatch center for the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
Source: Courtesy WYDOT Public Affairs Office
Wyoming's Traffic Management Center (TMC) uniquely focuses on rural travel management and addresses the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions, setting it apart from similar centers in other states that primarily target urban traffic congestion Furthermore, it stands out as one of the few TMCs that integrates communication services for Department of Transportation (DOT) construction, traffic, and maintenance operations alongside law enforcement, enhancing overall efficiency and response capabilities.
Key Functions of WYDOT’s TMC
The functions of the TMC have expanded over time, but the core functions can be grouped into the following four main areas:
Effective monitoring and control of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices at the roadside is essential for enhancing traffic management and safety This includes the oversight of web cameras, road weather information systems (RWIS), variable speed limit (VSL) signs, dynamic message signs (DMS), highway advisory radios (HAR), flashing beacons, and road closure gates By utilizing these technologies, transportation authorities can provide real-time information to drivers, improve road safety, and optimize traffic flow.
The State Law Enforcement Communications Systems (SALECS) operates as a vital communications hub for law enforcement, facilitating regular communication between state and federal agencies, including Highway Patrol troopers and other personnel.
• Managing communication with the traveling public via the 511 Travel Information Service
(telephone and internet components) and direct contact with media outlets, visitor centers, and truck stops;
• Receiving and relaying road and weather reports from volunteers participating in the
Enhanced Citizen-Assisted Reporting (ECAR) program, as well as, dispatching WYDOT construction and maintenance crews throughout the state.
Weather Integration Self-Evaluation Process
On April 22, 2009, WYDOT was introduced to the Weather Information Integration Self-Evaluation and Planning Guide Subsequently, on May 18, 2009, WYDOT held a collaborative meeting with stakeholders from various departments, including WYDOT Maintenance, Winter Research Services, the Transportation Management Center, Highway Patrol Dispatch, and the National Weather Service During this two-hour session, the team worked together to address the Guide's questions and enhance their understanding of weather information integration.
Chad Hahn, Senior Forecaster at the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, collaborates with key figures from the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), including Ken Shultz, State Maintenance Engineer, and Tim McGary, District Maintenance Engineer Captain Bill Morse oversees patrol dispatch, while Cliff Spoonemore leads Winter Research Services Additionally, Vince Garcia manages GIS/ITS programs, and Kevin Cox serves as the ITS-Systems Engineer, all based in Cheyenne Important insights from the Guide can be found in the appendices.
Relationship to Other Plan Documents
This section outlines both existing and proposed documents that inform the practices and operations of the TMC, each accompanied by a concise description of its relevance to the Weather Integration Plan.
Wyoming Statewide Intelligent Transportation (ITS) Architecture - This document produced by
In April 2006, WYDOT released an updated ITS Strategic Plan, which had been in effect since 2002 This document serves as a comprehensive guide for the deployment of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) infrastructure, ensuring compliance with ITS standards and facilitating coordination among multiple jurisdictions It also offers valuable planning insights for future ITS deployments and outlines WYDOT's communication strategies with neighboring states during storm events, particularly in relation to TMC weather integration.
WYDOT Transportation Management Center Concept of Operations – This document produced by
In March 2005, WYDOT adopted a key planning document that guided the design, construction, and staffing of the Traffic Management Center (TMC) This document reflects years of effort to define TMC requirements through a comprehensive systems engineering process It is particularly significant for TMC weather integration, as it includes various operational scenarios related to winter weather maintenance and traveler information.
The Variable Speed Limit (VSL) Policy Memorandum outlines a newly developed interim process by the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) for determining and posting appropriate speeds on VSL signs Over the past two years, this policy has emphasized the use of speed sensor data, while also incorporating weather information utilized by TMC operators, Highway Patrol, and maintenance personnel to ensure safe driving conditions.
Proposed VSL Control Strategy – This document and process is still being developed by the
The University of Wyoming is developing a comprehensive document to guide WYDOT in establishing effective speed limits on variable speed limit (VSL) signs Initial findings suggest that this strategy will depend on data from speed sensors and Road Weather Information System (RWIS) stations to set appropriate speed limits Additionally, the management of weather data within the Traffic Management Center (TMC) will be crucial for the successful implementation of this process and the associated documentation.
The High Wind/No Light Trailer Alerting Policy, developed by TMC and district maintenance teams, sets clear and consistent criteria for notifying the public about high wind conditions and the advisability of using no light trailers.
RWIS Infrastructure
WYDOT operates a network of 62 RWIS stations across the state, all managed through a centralized software system called SCAN Web The following images illustrate the statewide network and provide a detailed map of southeast Wyoming, highlighting a concentrated deployment of RWIS along a 52-mile Variable Speed Limit (VSL) corridor between Laramie and Rawlins Additionally, a table of RWIS locations statewide is included for reference.
Source: Screenshot of ScanWeb Map Image
Table 1 – List of RWIS Locations
RWIS No SITENAME Highway MILEPOST
The VSL corridor in Wyoming, spanning 52 miles along Interstate 80 from Walcott Junction to Quealy Dome Interchange, is the state's inaugural project of its kind This corridor features 13 Road Weather Information System (RWIS) stations, marking a significant milestone as WYDOT's first corridor-level RWIS deployment.
Source: Screenshot of ScanWeb Map Image
Figure 4 – RWIS in southeast Wyoming
The maintenance of RWIS (Road Weather Information System) across the state is mainly managed by WYDOT, supplemented by an annual maintenance contract to support their efforts in preventive maintenance The estimated annual maintenance cost for each WYDOT RWIS site is approximately $4,000.
Maintenance Decision Support System
In recent years, WYDOT has engaged in the FHWA pooled-fund study to implement a maintenance decision support system (MDSS), now utilized through Meridian Environmental Technologies Although its application within the Traffic Management Center (TMC) has been somewhat restricted, it is increasingly recognized as a valuable resource for TMC operators in assessing road weather conditions and forecasting.
WYDOT currently lacks formal guidelines for the use of the Maintenance Decision Support System (MDSS) in daily operations, leading to inconsistent application among maintenance crews While the Traffic Management Center (TMC) plans to enhance the utilization of the MDSS, there is a need for improved coordination both within the TMC and between the TMC and maintenance teams The MDSS graphical user interface is illustrated in Figure 5 below.
Source: Screenshot of MDSS, Meridian Environmental Technology
Alert Notifications
METalert, a feature of the MDSS system, delivers real-time and forecast weather alerts tailored to user-defined thresholds for specific counties, cities, or RWIS stations Recently, WYDOT has implemented this system, granting access to TMC operators and maintenance staff The application offers various alert notification options, enhancing situational awareness for weather-related events.
The alerting system offers notifications via email or text message, featuring multiple options for selecting criteria thresholds However, a notable limitation is the absence of pop-up alerts on the TMC operators' computer screens.
Source: Screenshot of WYDOT METAlerts System
WYDOT previously utilized the SCAN Sentry alerting system, part of the SCAN Web RWIS management package, to monitor its RWIS However, the implementation faced challenges at the TMC due to configuration issues, particularly in setting appropriate thresholds TMC operators have reported that the system generates repetitive alerts for identical conditions Further investigation will be carried out to determine if suitable parameters can be established for the alerting system.
NorthWest Weathernet
NorthWest Weathernet has been the preferred forecasting service for WYDOT maintenance forces for several years, offering a text-based forecast updated twice daily on its website This service delivers localized weather forecasts tailored to WYDOT maintenance shop locations, making it convenient for maintenance foremen and plow operators to quickly access relevant weather information for their specific areas However, this format can be less efficient for the TMC when looking at forecasts from a statewide or district-wide perspective.
Below is a sample screen shot of the product provided by NorthWest Weathernet, Inc.
Source: Screenshot of WYDOT NorthWest Weathernet
Figure 7 – NorthWest Weathernet WYDOT page
Other TMC Weather Resources
The TMC utilizes various sources for weather information, primarily through websites like Intellicast, the Weather Channel, and the National Weather Service Furthermore, a television in the TMC often broadcasts the Weather Channel or local and national news channels that provide weather updates.
Operational guidelines for utilizing weather data within Traffic Management Centers (TMC) are limited, with few formal policies in place However, certain thresholds established by Road Weather Information System (RWIS) stations dictate necessary actions, such as alerting maintenance teams or informing the public about prevailing conditions.
Conceptually, the TMC attempts to manage weather at two levels, statewide and/or corridor.
Statewide Weather Management
The Traffic Management Center (TMC) at WYDOT is the sole entity responsible for statewide weather management, yet no specific group within the TMC is designated to oversee weather information and develop a cohesive strategy As a result, the TMC often functions like five independent maintenance districts, reflecting a legacy approach Despite this, the TMC holds the greatest potential for effectively managing weather events across the state.
Laramie to Cheyenne (The Summit) Commuter Corridor
This corridor along Interstate 80 was WYDOT’s first corridor-level deployment of ITS equipment back in
Since 2003, additional equipment has been installed along a 20-mile corridor, enhancing its Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) capabilities This includes six cameras, ten dynamic message signs (DMS), three Road Weather Information System (RWIS) stations, and twelve speed sensors The high density of DMS allows the Traffic Management Center (TMC) to deliver more location-specific traveler information regarding road and weather conditions Given the challenging nature of this corridor, it is being considered as one of the next three Variable Speed Limit (VSL) corridors in the state.
Variable Speed Limit Corridor
Current Policy/Procedure
The existing speed limit posting policy was established through collaboration between the Traffic Management Center (TMC), Highway Patrol, and District Maintenance staff This comprehensive policy outlines the procedures for adjusting speed limits according to specific circumstances and the personnel available during the implementation of these changes.
The policy permits TMC operators to lower speed limits when there is a consistent speed decrease of at least 10 MPH for a minimum of 15 minutes While speed data is the main factor in this decision, TMC operators also consider RWIS data as supplementary information.
Draft Control Strategy
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is collaborating with the University of Wyoming's Civil Engineering Department to develop an automated control strategy that optimizes speed and weather data This initiative aims to provide Traffic Management Center (TMC) operators with high-quality recommended speeds based on sensor information Currently in the early stages of development, the draft control strategy is set to undergo testing this Fall.
Following the self-evaluation interview process, 11 high-priority needs were identified, along with seven medium-priority and two low-priority needs The evaluation revealed that addressing the high-priority needs would also effectively tackle most of the medium and low-priority needs.
The sections below describe the 11 high priority needs, and group them into four main “need” areas.
Need Areas Definition of Need
Disseminate weather information to a larger set of stakeholders and users in the region (including transit and other modes)
Written Policy Development Develop and implement clear, written policies and procedures for handling weather events.
Coordination within TMC Improve coordination within the TMC
More coordinated responses and information with adjacent jurisdictions/regions
Level of Service Restoration Reduce the time required to restore pre-event level of service operations after a weather event
Weather Management Response Improve the timeliness of weather management response including deployment of field personnel and equipment
Weather Information Processing and Gathering
Interpreting Weather Information Assistance in interpreting weather information and how best to adjust operations in light of that information.
Improve the coverage and granularity of weather information in the region.
Better real-time information on road conditions during weather events.
Better prediction of impact of weather events including assessment of reduction in capacity.
Better Short-Term Forecasts Better short-term forecasts of arrival time, duration, and intensity of specific weather events at specific locations.
The "Levels of Integration" matrix illustrates the current status of WYDOT's Traffic Management Center (TMC), marked in yellow, and outlines the necessary advancements for integration, highlighted in pink This matrix is based on recommendations from the Self-Evaluation Guide.
WYDOT's Traffic Management Center (TMC) must enhance its integration in six key areas, highlighted in gray, to effectively incorporate weather considerations into its operations The following sections provide detailed insights into each integration area and suggest potential solutions for achieving this improved integration.
Frequency of Road Weather Observations
Enhancing the frequency of real-time reports from travelers on Wyoming highways, such as plow drivers, commercial truckers, and other road users, is essential for effective integration.
Currently, snow plow operators contact the Traffic Management Center (TMC) when weather conditions change or after two hours have elapsed Implementing a notification system for the TMC to alert them when each active plow has exceeded the two-hour reporting timeframe could enhance operational efficiency.
Additional reporting could come from other travelers on WYDOT’s highways, assuming that they have been properly trained to identify conditions, and how to pass that information to the TMC.
Weather Information Coordination
The integration levels matrix reveals a significant disparity between WYDOT's current status, highlighted in yellow, and its desired future state regarding TMC weather integration As a result, the initial implementation efforts will primarily concentrate on enhancing weather information coordination.
WYDOT is taking immediate action to enhance weather information management by hiring a part-time local meteorologist from DayWeather, Inc This contract, which started in early December 2010, will run on a trial basis until May 31, 2011.
Extent of Coverage
In the past year, WYDOT has enhanced its real-time weather information network by transitioning from a scattered system of 32 RWIS stations to a more cohesive corridor-level deployment This initiative included the installation of 13 RWIS stations along a 52-mile stretch of interstate, significantly improving coverage and data accuracy for travelers.
None Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Level 5
None Camera imagery Radar, satellite, ASOS and AWOS data, and general zone-type forecast information
Level 2 data plus data from RWIS and related networks Level 3 data plus data from
AVL/MDC sources and internal radio communications
Level 4 data with addition of analyzed fields & transformed data parameters (frost index, wind chill,snow,ice,water depth
None General weather information, forecasts, and interpretation provided through media as irregular service (radio and TV weather)
Internet provided, public access general forecasts, weather radar or satellite image or weather-specific broadcast channel
Field observers or probes providing scheduled weather / driving condition information from entire route system
Contractor provided surface transportation weather forecasts targeted at the operational needs of the TMC agencies
Direct connection between private weather information service providers and traffic management software
Weather Information None Cable channel or subscription weather information vendor providing general weather information
Internet provided weather radar or satellite image on video wall Field observers or ESS network providing scheduled road or driving condition reports
Vendor provided daily surface transportation weather forecasts and observed weather conditions incl Level 3
Meteorologist, located within TMC, forecasting and interpreting weather
Weather forecasts can be received in various ways, including on a request basis or once daily For more frequent updates, users can opt for periodic forecasts several times a day or hourly updates For those needing the latest information, continuous real-time weather updates are available.
None Receive information of weather conditions on a request basis Receive weather observations once hourly Level 2 plus receive weather/road weather observations when predefined threshold has been exceeded
Receive weather/road weather observations every ten minutes and when predefined thresholds have been exceeded
Receive weather/road weather observations continuously with data above predefined thresholds highlighted
Coordination None Intra-TMC committee tasked with weather information coordination
Identified TMC or member tasked w/ coordinating weather information at TMC
Dedicated weather operations supervisor Meteorology staff located within the TMC forecasting and interpreting weather info.
Co-location of the EOC/OEM
Extent of Coverage None Sparse set of isolated locations Network of scattered locations Corridor-level Multiple-corridor/sub-regional Regional/statewide
Meteorologists None Focus group or informal gatherings of local professionals from the transportation management and weather communities
Develop check list of routine weather awareness activities Periodic staff meeting that includes a meteorologist to discuss weather information needs and responses
With a meteorologist present conduct post-event debriefing / regular assessment to fine-tune responses
Daily personal briefings and integrated interruptions by meteorology staff within the TMC
Alert Notification None Monitor media outlet, Internet page, or data stream for critical events
Telephone call list Manual email/paging system TMC road weather system
(RWIS / ALERT / FEWS) generated specific notification
Automatic notification through Center-to-Center communications
Decision Support None Ad-hoc implementation of weather management strategies
Use quick-reference flip cards on operator’s workstation to implement predefined response
Response scenarios through software-supplied solutions w/ projected outcomes based on weather / traffic modeling
Automated condition recognition & advisory/control strategy presented to operator for acceptance into ATMS
Automated condition recognition and advisory or control strategy implemented without operator intervention
None Media reports Internet and/or satellite data sources Across agency intranet and dedicated phone acquisition Dedicated communications link to state, federal, private data sources
Dedicated communications link to state, federal, private data sources incl vehicle weather data
The recent deployment marks the start of numerous similar projects in Wyoming Currently, WYDOT is designing three additional VSL projects, alongside one that is already under construction.
The TMC faces challenges in managing corridor-level information and must enhance its capability to utilize this detailed data effectively By doing so, it can better identify issues and set suitable speed limits.
Interaction with Meteorologists
The TMC has two valuable resources for direct communication with meteorologists: a dedicated phone line to a staff meteorologist at NorthWest Weathernet, Inc., and access to the National Weather Service meteorologist in Cheyenne via phone or radio Currently, these resources are under-utilized, but the introduction of a Weather Information Manager at the TMC is expected to enhance coordination and improve their usage significantly.
Alert Notifications
WYDOT is currently at integration level 4 but aims to improve the MetAlert system further Additionally, efforts will be made to redeploy SCAN Sentry on TMC operator workstations WYDOT is also focused on developing a customized weather information tool that will feature real-time and forecasted road weather conditions, including a notification system for alerts.
Decision Support
TMC operators constantly make crucial decisions regarding DMS messaging and VSL speed postings By leveraging weather and traffic data, an integrated decision model within WYDOT's advanced traffic management system (ATMS) can enhance the delivery of timely, accurate, and consistent messaging on DMS and VSL.
Summary of Integration Strategies
Table 3 summarizes WYDOT’s integration strategies, detailing the current status of each integration item, recommendations from the self-evaluation guide, and the integration levels chosen by WYDOT for both the current (C) and future (F) timeframes, along with relevant comments for each item.
Table 3 – Summary of Integration Strategies
3 3 3/4 C=expand RWIS locations; F=outfit & receive data from plows & other vehicles
4 4 4/4 Build integrated weather information tool to assist TMC operators
Weather Information 4 4 4/4 Availability meets current needs
Weather Forecasts 4 4 4/4 Frequency meets current needs
2 3 3/3 Expand coverage and frequency of plow driver reports
Contracting with a part-time local meteorologist to perform weather information management tasks in TMC.
Cding four more VSL corridors throughout the state; F=continued expansion of RWIS sites.
Enhance alert notification in phases (use SCAN Sentry, expand METalert , build new alert system w/ new Wx info tool).
C=automated recommendations for VSL system; F=expand to DMS recommendations.
F=automated data collection from DOT vehicles.
* C/F=Current plans (within next 1-2 years)/Future plans (beyond 2 years)
Implementation Tasks
The integration strategies can be grouped into the following seven implementation tasks or projects:
The RWIS expansion initiative aims to enhance road weather information system coverage across the state by implementing multiple corridor projects To kick off this effort, a gap analysis will be conducted, incorporating feedback from District Maintenance offices to identify optimal locations for new installations This collaborative approach will enable WYDOT to formulate a comprehensive RWIS expansion plan and allocate an annual budget, targeting the completion of the desired enhancements within the next five years.
2) AVL/MDC - Expand vehicle weather data transmission to TMC from plows with AVL/MDC.
WYDOT will continue the statewide deployment of its current AVL system while utilizing its systems engineering process for the MDC component to ensure all requirements are fulfilled, including seamless integration with the existing AVL system.
The Weather Information Manager (WIM) will be a part-time, contracted meteorologist responsible for executing key elements of the weather management plan This role involves assisting Traffic Management Center (TMC) operators in effectively managing and utilizing both current and future weather data Additionally, the WIM will serve as the primary contact for all weather information resources within the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT).
The VSL expansion plan includes the addition of Variable Speed Limit (VSL) systems in four key locations, with ongoing development in statewide corridors One corridor is under construction and expected to be completed by January 2011, while two others are set to become operational by October 2011 The final corridor is scheduled for construction in 2012.
5) Weather Information Tool - Build integrated weather information tool to assist operators.
For effective deployment in commercial vehicles and public use, a weather information manager will play a crucial role in the development of this system, ensuring that the information provided is both timely and accurate.
6) Weather Alert Notification - Expand/enhance alert notification system in phases: 1) using
The SCAN Sentry system is currently accessible to the Traffic Management Center (TMC) and requires minor configuration adjustments along with additional operator training Additionally, the METalert system is available, and incorporating enhanced features such as visibility alerts would greatly benefit TMC operators Furthermore, the new integrated weather tool and database are set to expand the capabilities of the METalert system.
7) ATMS Decision Support - Expand decision support tools, starting with VSL and moving to
DMS recommendations This will include some software development work for our existingATMS to provide such recommendations based on weather and traffic information.
Integration Timeline and Cost Estimates
The table below outlines seven identified projects, detailing their estimated start and end times, along with projected implementation and ongoing operations and maintenance costs.
Table 4 – Project Timeline and Costs
Project Start Completion Initial Cost O&M Cost
Wx Alert Notification Ongoing 2013 $20,000 $3,000/year
Many of these projects are currently in progress and have secured partial funding However, it may be necessary to adjust the scopes of these initiatives to align with the needs outlined in this plan.
Anticipated Challenges and Constraints
Currently, four out of seven projects are actively underway and adequately funded, as indicated in Table 4 The AVL project is progressing; however, there is still uncertainty regarding the mobile data computer (MDC) component The integration of the MDC with the AVL system being deployed by WYDOT may present significant challenges.
Developing a weather information tool presents significant challenges; however, several components are already established to support the system The primary difficulty lies in integrating various information resources effectively.
WYDOT utilizes a standard Automated Traffic Management System (ATMS), but customizing it to support Variable Speed Limit (VSL) and Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) decision-making may present challenges Since this software is sourced from a third-party vendor, the feasibility of adapting it to the specific requirements of the Traffic Management Center (TMC) is currently uncertain.
Appendix A – Summary Report of Weather Events
Summary report of weather events experienced by your TMC (Section 1 Report)
Weather Event Frequency Extent Impact
Tornadoes Seldom Local/Isolated Spots Significant Impact
Blowing Sand or Dust Occasional Areawide Significant Impact
Flooding Occasional Statewide Significant Impact
Sleet, and Freezing Rain Occasional Areawide Significant Impact
Blizzard or White-out Regular Statewide Significant Impact
Blowing Snow Regular Statewide Significant Impact
Bridge Frost, Road Frost Regular Statewide Significant Impact
Drizzle and Light Rain Regular Statewide Little Impact
Flurries and Light Snow Regular Statewide Little Impact
High Winds Regular Regional Significant Impact
Moderate to Heavy Rain Regular Statewide Little Impact
Moderate to Heavy Snow Regular Statewide Moderate Impact
Severe Thunderstorms Regular Regional Significant Impact
Smoke, Mist, Fog, Smog or Regular Regional Significant Impact
Appendix B – Summary Report of Impacts Due to Weather Events
Summary report of impacts due to your weather events (Section 2 Report)
Weather significantly influences the operations of transportation system operators focused on ensuring safety and mobility Understanding and utilizing weather information effectively is a complex challenge, as TMC operators typically respond more to traffic conditions than to weather data Recognizing how weather affects traffic capacity, speed reductions, and safety—such as crash risks and incident management involving Safety Service Patrols—is crucial Additionally, effective communication among traffic managers, maintenance personnel, emergency management, and law enforcement is essential for coordinated responses By accurately estimating the impacts of weather, operators can enhance the management of freeway systems and arterial signal systems through more efficient advisory, control, and treatment strategies.
This report identifies the impacts of these weather events on your TMC’s traffic operations considering both impacts to users as well as operators
Traffic impacts commonly associated with the weather events in your region
Weather Event Increased Increased Reduced Traffic Disruption of CVO or Road Closures
Travel Times Crash Risk Roadway Management specialized vehicle
Smoke, Mist, Fog, Smog or Haze ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Roadway impacts commonly associated with the weather events in the region
Weather Event Slick Road Structural Presence of Low Others (Please
Roads Obstruction deterioration debris visibility specify)
Smoke, Mist, Fog, Smog or Haze □ □ □ □ ■
Specific impacts of weather events in your region on TMC operations
Weather Event Increased use of Increased in- Increased Loss of Changes in traffic Others equipment and house labor contractor communications control operations Significant labor labor /power Impacts
4 - Significant Impact, 3 - Moderate Impact, 2- Little Impact, 1 - No Impact
Smoke, Mist, Fog, Smog or 3 3 1 1 3
Appendix C – Summary Report on Current Integration Level
Summary report on your TMC's current level of weather integration (Section 3 Report)
Item of Integration I1 Use of Internal Weather Information Resources
None Camera imagery Radar, satellite, Level 2 data plus data Level 3 data plus data Level 4 data with
ASOS and AWOS systems from RWIS, along with AVL/MDC, utilize analyzed data and various related network sources to provide essential information parameters These include frost index, wind chill, estimated snow, ice, and water depth, all of which are crucial for accurate weather forecasting and radio communications in specific zones.
Item of Integration I2 Use of External Weather Information Sources
The article discusses the integration of general weather information and specialized forecasts provided by field observers and contractors It emphasizes the importance of direct connections to public access probes that facilitate surface transportation and driving conditions The content highlights the role of weather radar and satellite imagery in interpreting weather data, particularly for traffic management agencies Additionally, it notes the use of media channels, including radio and broadcast, to disseminate irregular weather-specific information to service providers and the entire route system managed by TMC agencies.
Item of Integration I3 Availability of Weather Information
The article discusses the lack of reliable weather information sources, such as cable channels or internet services, for field observers and vendors It highlights the importance of daily meteorological updates, including weather radar and satellite images, to enhance surface transportation management within Traffic Management Centers (TMC) Additionally, it emphasizes the need for accurate scheduled weather forecasts and real-time weather condition reports, which can be effectively displayed on video walls or computer screens for better interpretation and decision-making.
Item of Integration I4 Frequency of Weather Forecasts
Stay informed with real-time weather updates, receiving forecasts multiple times a day Unlike the traditional daily forecasts, our service provides continuous updates upon request, ensuring you have the latest weather information at your fingertips.
Item of Integration I5 Frequency of Weather/Road Weather
Receive timely weather and road condition updates at Level 2, with observations provided every ten minutes These weather observations are continuously monitored and reported on a request basis, ensuring that data is highlighted when predefined thresholds are exceeded.
Item of Integration I6 Weather Information Coordination
The article highlights the absence of dedicated weather meteorology staff within the Traffic Management Center (TMC) and emphasizes the need for co-location of maintenance operations supervisors with weather forecasting personnel This collaboration aims to enhance the coordination and interpretation of weather information at the TMC, ensuring that critical weather data is effectively communicated and utilized for better decision-making.
Item of Integration I7 Extent of Coverage
None Sparse Set of Network of Corridor-level Multiple-corridor/sub- Regional/Statewide
Isolated Locations Scattered Locations regional
Item of Integration I8 Interaction with Meteorologists
To enhance communication and response strategies, regular informal gatherings should be held among meteorologists and transportation management staff These daily meetings will focus on discussing local weather conditions, assessing information needs, and fine-tuning responses to weather-related interruptions Additionally, post-event debriefings will help integrate insights from local professionals, ensuring that the team remains well-informed and prepared to address community concerns effectively.
Item of Integration I9 Alert Notification
None Monitor media outlet, Telephone call list Manual email/paging TMC road weather Automatic
Internet page, or system system (RWIS / notification through data stream for ALERT / FEWS) Center-to-Center critical events generated specific communications notifications (Email or page)
Item of Integration II10 Decision Support
The implementation of automated conditions through software recognition enhances the management of weather-related scenarios By utilizing quick-reference response strategies, operators can effectively supply potential advisory or control solutions This approach allows for predefined responses based on traffic modeling and weather conditions, optimizing projected outcomes without direct operator intervention in the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS).
Item of Integration II11 Weather/Road Weather Data Acquisition
None Media Reports Internet and/or Across agency Dedicated Dedicated
Satellite Data intranet and communications link communications link Sources dedicated phone to state, federal, to state, federal, acquisition private data sources private data sources including vehicle- derived weather data
Appendix D – Summary Report on TMC Operational Needs to Be
Addressed by Better Weather Integration
Summary report on your TMC Operational Needs that could be addressed by better weather integration (Section 4
Rating Legend: 3 - High, 2- Medium, 1-Low, 0 - No Need
3-High Disseminate weather information to a larger set of stakeholders and users in the region (including transit and other modes)
2-Medium Improve targeting of weather messages (site-specific; user group specific) to more effectively convey road weather information.
2-Medium Provide better pre-trip weather condition information to aid travelers in their decision-making
2-Medium Provide better en-route information on weather conditions to aid travelers in their decision-making 2-Medium Improve message content (for DMS, 511, HAR, Web sites, etc.)
3-High Develop and implement clear, written policies and procedures for handling weather events.
3-High Improve coordination within the TMC
3-High More coordinated responses and information with adjacent jurisdictions/regions 2-Medium Improve coordination with local public safety and emergency agencies
1-Low More opportunities and mechanisms for communications and exchange with others in the weather community and those with experience dealing with weather events.
2-Medium Improve management of emergency routing and evacuation for large-scale weather events 2-Medium Improve traffic diversion and alternate routing capabilities
0-No Need Improve traffic signal timing during weather events to facilitate traffic movement 0-No Need Improve safety at intersections during weather events
3-High Reduce the time required to restore pre-event level of service operations after a weather event
3-High Improve the timeliness of weather management response including deployment of field personnel and equipment 2-Medium Reduce costs of roadway treatment options
1-Low Need to assist maintenance in determining the optimal treatment materials, application rates, and timing of treatments.