Lead Centres for Sub-Seasonal Prediction Multi-Model Ensemble (LC-SSPMME) as well as Global Producing Centres for Sub-seasonal Predictions (GPC-SSP) are the latest additions to the WMO infrastructure for operational climate predictions. A brief description of LC-SSPMME and GPC-SSP roles is given below. For further information see the WMO Integrated Processing and Prediction System (WIPPS).
Lead Centres for Sub-Seasonal Prediction Multi-Model Ensemble coordinate multi-model ensembles of sub-seasonal forecasts by maintaining an archive containing a set of selected model fields, by creating graphical products from individual and multi-model ensembles under an agreed format and by creating verification statistics. The list of LC-SSPPMME functions include:
- generate subseasonal forecasts from individual model and multi-model combination
- publish the forecasts in a standard format and on a regular basis
- maintain an archive of the forecast data generated by the GPC-SSP
- maintain a repository of documentation for the system configuration of all GPC-SSP systems
- provide verification statistics based on reforecast data according to the WMO standard
To provide WMO Members with reliable multi-model ensembles in real time, the LC-SSPMME uses forecast data from several sub-seasonal prediction systems. Forecast data is provided by WMO Global Producing Centres for Sub-seasonal Predictions (GPC-SSP) and by Contributing Centres.
Global Producing Centres for Sub-seasonal Predictions are required to fulfill a set of mandatory functions aiming to enhance consistency and usability of forecast information and to facilitate the exchange of data. For example, GPCs agree to:
generate subseasonal global forecast, with at least weekly frequency
make available a defined set of forecast products for a minimum set of variables including 2mt, SST and precipitation
produce verification statistics according to the WMO standard.
provide forecast and hindcast to the LC-SSPMME on a regular schedule
make available up-to-date information about their subseasonal forecast system.
Contributing Centres provide the forecast data to the LC-SSPMME but have not yet committed to function as GPC-SSP. This is a special arrangement for operational centres that potentially meet GPC-SSP criteria. This provision will be terminated in the next few years to strongly encourage the centres to apply for a formal GPC-SSP designation.