This presentation will provide insight on the decision space that weather, ice, and hydrologic forecasters face in Alaska and the current information framework from which forecast products are issued. Real examples will be used for a thought exercise in which data collected by UAS could improve current data streams or provide data where none are currently available. The scenarios described here could be for planned, routine usage, as well as emergency response. The potential impacts of the data are emphasized, not any particular aerial platform, but possible advantages of mobile platforms over fixed instrumentation will be also be discussed. Challenges of data transmission in Alaska and integration into the forecaster’s information framework will conclude the talk.
