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Best Practices for Road Weather Management Version 2.0

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Title:

GIS-Based Three-Dimensional Snow Drift Computer Model

Abstract:

The snowdrift transport model SnowTran-3D has been modified to work integrally with geographic information system (GIS) software. This allows use of the model with standard GIS tools and layers enabling direct display and analysis of drifts on roads and other features of interest. This is currently being developed as a planning tool for state and local DOTs and the U.S. Army for deployment of road maintenance equipment. Additionally it can be used as a forecasting tool for the maintenance decision support system and can work in conjunction with real-time meteorological forecasting, to allow posting of 48-h forecasts of drift formation on roads. Preliminary model validation data shows that SnowTran-3D is capable of correctly predicting drift location and volume for drifts deposited in the lee of a road or berm.

Source(s):

6th International Symposium on Snow Removal and Ice Control Technology, Transportation Research Circular, No. E-C063

http://trb.org/publications/circulars/ec063.pdf

Date: 2004

Author:

Haehnel, Liston

Keywords:


Wind
Forecast/Prediction
Decision support

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