Help CenterAccumulation range — (min/max in inches) per region Confidence level — (low, medium, high) per region Timing phases — when precipitation starts (onset), when it's heaviest (peak), and when it tapers off Narrative — your written analysis Winter storms and snow events Severe weather outbreaks Any event where "how much?" and "when?" are the key questions Duration — 3, 5, 7, or 10 days Daily conditions — per region — high/low temps, weather condition, wind, precipitation chance Narrative — your written analysis Weekly weather outlooks Weekend forecasts Extended outlooks for planning Daily forecast updates
Storm Forecasts vs. General Forecasts
When to use each forecast type and what makes them different.
Two Ways to Forecast
Forecaster HQ supports two forecast types, each designed for a different use case.
Storm Forecasts
Use a storm forecast when you're predicting a specific weather event — a nor'easter, ice storm, lake-effect event, or any situation where accumulation is the focus.
What You Define
Best For
General Forecasts
Use a general forecast for multi-day weather outlooks — your 3-day, 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day forecast.
What You Define
Best For
Which Should I Use?
If your audience is asking "How much snow are we getting?" → Storm Forecast
If your audience is asking "What's the weather look like this week?" → General Forecast
You can publish both types — most active forecasters use storm forecasts for events and general forecasts for their regular updates.