Forecast for Thursday, July 17

Issued: Wednesday, July 16 Launch Weather Officer: Jim Sardonia, 45th Weather Squadron Synoptic Discussion: "Thunderstorms are expected this afternoon at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS). Lightning within 5 nm of the VIF and SLC 41 is anticipated. "On launch day (Thursday), another round of afternoon thunderstorms may occur prior to tanking, however activity should diminish as the launch window approaches. Afternoon thunderstorms in the interior portions of Florida will produce Anvil Clouds that may drift to the east towards SLC 41 during the launch countdown. "Conditions worsen in the event of a 24 and 48-hour delay as the upper-level winds switch back to a westerly component increasing the chance of Anvil clouds overhead in the late afternoon hours of Friday and Saturday. "The main concerns for Launch Day will be the chance of enhanced Cumulus clouds and Thunderstorm Anvil Clouds within 10 nm of SLC 41." Clouds: Scattered Cumulus at 3,000 feet with 2/8ths sky coverage and tops at 8,000 feet; Broken Cirrus at 25,000 feet with 5/8ths sky coverage and tops at 27,000 feet Visibility: 7 miles or better Launch Pad Winds: Southeasterly from 120-140 degrees at 12 gusting to 18 knots (as measured at 230 feet) Temperature: 80 to 82 degrees F Relative Humidity: 75 percent Weather: Scattered coastal rainshowers Solar Activity: Low-moderate Probability of Violating Weather Constraints: 40 percent Concerns: Enhanced Cumulus Clouds within 10 nautical miles, Chance of Anvil Clouds within 10 nautical miles

24- and 48-hour Delay Forecasts

Friday's Probability of Violating Constraints: 60 percent Concerns: Chance of Anvil Clouds and Enhanced Cumulus Clouds within 10 nautical miles Saturday's Probability of Violating Constraints: 60 percent Concerns: Chance of Anvil Clouds and Enhanced Cumulus Clouds within 10 nautical miles