Dear Colleagues,

ECMWF is preparing for the forthcoming implementation of the 43r1
version of the integrated forecasting system (IFS).

IFS Cycle 43r1 is an upgrade with many scientific contributions,
including changes in data assimilation (both in the EDA and the 4DVAR),
in the use of observations and in modelling.  In addition, several new
model output parameters are implemented, including new cloud and
freezing diagnostics, a new direct-beam solar radiation diagnostic and
new significant wave height parameters at different period ranges to
help with the detection of low-frequency ocean wave energy.

With this cycle upgrade, the medium-range ensemble and its monthly
extension see a major upgrade in the dynamical ocean model (NEMO): the
resolution is increased to 0.25 degrees and 75 layers.  Furthermore, an
interactive sea-ice model (LIM2) is implemented.

The implementation is planned for 22 November 2016, subject to the
progress of ongoing testing.

A dedicated information web page for this change has been prepared and
is available at:

Implementation of IFS Cycle 43r1

Details of the meteorological and technical changes in this cycle,
together with information about the forecast performance (including
scorecard) and access to test data both in MARS and dissemination, will
be provided on the web page.

Users are reminded that they can "watch" the web page to obtain
notification of further updates.  A date of the "next expected update"
will also be maintained in the page.

Best regards

Prof. Florian Pappenberger
Director of Forecasts, ECMWF

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