Python Script for Plotting WRF Precipitation

Script Overview

This Python script downloads meteorological data from the WRF model via the THREDDS server of MeteoGalicia, processes it, and generates visual representations of sea-level pressure and precipitation for the current day.

Step-by-Step Script Explanation

1. Data Download and Loading:
   The script automatically downloads a NetCDF file from the MeteoGalicia THREDDS server containing WRF model output for the current date. If the file already exists locally, it opens it instead of downloading it again.

2. Georeferencing:
   The function georeferencio() computes the latitude and longitude grid using parameters from the NetCDF file, converting them into a map projection with the Basemap library.

3. Daily Rain Calculation:
   The dailyrain() function calculates the accumulated rain over the last three hours by subtracting rain data at the current and previous time steps.

4. Sea Level Pressure (SLP) Calculation:
   The pressure() function computes sea-level pressure by adjusting the surface pressure data with elevation and temperature corrections.

5. Plotting Meteorological Data:
   For each time step in the NetCDF file, the script generates a plot with the following:

   • Sea-Level Pressure Contours: These are plotted as isobars on a map.
   • Highs and Lows: The script identifies and labels areas of high and low pressure on the map.
   • Optional Rain Visualization: You can uncomment the corresponding section to display rain data on the map.

6. Saving Plots:
   Each plot is saved as a PNG image file. After all plots are created, the script compiles them into an animated GIF showing the progression of the weather over time.

7. Cleaning Up:
   The script deletes the raw NetCDF and optional PNG, keeping only the final GIF as the output.