Computer models are simulations of the atmosphere that utilize the most powerful supercomputers in the world. Also called Numerical Weather Prediction, or NWP, these supercomputers solve equations dealing with fluid dynamics and thermodynamics to predict the conditions of the atmosphere at different altitudes over a period of time. Some computer models are global in their scale, while some are regional, or "limited area" models.
Global Scale Models:
GFS - Global Forecast System, developed by NOAA
NOGAPS - Developed by the US Navy
ECMWF - Model run by the European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasts
UKMET - Developed by the United Kingdom's national weather service
JMA - Developed by the Japanese Meteorological Agency
Limited Area Models:
NAM - North American Mesoscale Model, run by the National Center for Environmental Prediction
WRF - Weather Research and Forecasting model
GEMS - Developed by the Meteorological Service of Canada for Canada and North America
Helpful Links:
Understanding Computer Models:
Interpreting and understanding computer models, courtesy Jeff Haby
History of model performance
Model Links:
NCEP Model Page
Unisys Model Page
Canadian Model
NEXLAB Models
Earl Barker's Model Page
