Which forecasting method focuses on significant short-term weather phenomena?

The method that focuses on significant short-term weather phenomena is the nowcast. Nowcasting involves predicting weather conditions in the very near future, typically within the next few hours up to around 12 hours ahead. This technique is particularly valuable for forecasting rapidly changing conditions, such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, and other severe weather events that can develop quickly and require timely alerts for public safety.

The nowcast relies heavily on current observations and high-resolution models to capture the fast-evolving nature of weather. Meteorologists use real-time data from radar, satellite imagery, and surface observations to inform their updates. This immediacy makes nowcasting essential for events that pose immediate hazards, allowing for quick and decisive action by emergency services and the public.

In contrast, other forecasting methods like medium-range forecasting look several days into the future, while long-range forecasting addresses weather patterns over weeks or even months. An outlook typically encompasses broader trends or general conditions in a longer time frame without the specificity that nowcasting provides for imminent weather events.