On methods for assessment of the value of observations in convection‐permitting data assimilation and numerical weather forecasting

An assessment of the value of these observations for NWP can guide us in the design of future observation networks, help us to identify problems with the assimilation system, and allow us to assess changes to the assimilation system. However, assessment can be challenging in convection‐permitting NWP.

This is because verification of convection‐permitting forecasts is not easy, the forecast model is strongly nonlinear, a limited‐area model is used, and the observations used often contain complex error statistics and are often associated with nonlinear observation operators. We compare methods that can be used to assess the value of observations in convection‐permitting NWP and discuss operational considerations when using these methods.