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CAT forecasts by computer modelling

Forecasting of CAT is routinely done using results obtained from computer modelling of the weather.  The modelling results make it possible to calculate a number of CAT indices, which are based on such contributing factors as wind changes in the vertical direction and instability of the air.  Regions where the CAT indices are large are marked as possible CAT areas on the significant weather chart.

Some aircraft nowadays are capable of automatic reporting of weather during flight.  Apart from providing forecasters with useful weather information such as winds, temperatures and turbulence, these reports are incorporated into computer models resulting in improved forecasts.