FORETELL is a multi-state road and weather information system that provides national coverage using NOAA / NWS weather models, radar data and surface observation sites. Surface observations include airport data (ASOS / AWOS) and road weather information stations (RWIS). FORETELL supplies its road weather information to broader ITS services such as 511 telephone systems and Low Power FM, helping enhance safety and facilitate travel throughout North America.

FORETELL uses state-of-the-art NOAA weather models and NWS data sources, plus airport sensors, road sensors and mobile platforms. National weather prediction is supplemented by regional weather models covering New England and the Upper Mississippi Valley at greater resolution. Manual road reports are added to the system using the sister system CARS. The result is the most detailed weather and road condition information currently available.

Current or predicted precipitation

For Internet users, FORETELL provides road weather information that is detailed, timely, relevant and easily accessible. The system features hourly, regional forecasts extending 24 to 30 hours into the future. Regional data are provided at more detailed resolutions than national forecasts can support, using a 6 to 10 kilometer grid. FORETELL also uses pager, e-mail, radio and 511 telephone systems to distribute weather and road conditions on demand.

The mid-western FORETELL model covers Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin. In the New England area, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut are currently covered by the detailed weather model. Also, New Mexico is currently adopting FORETELL using national weather and radar data feeds.

Predicted wind speed and direction

For more information on FORETELL, please contact: