Understanding the Regional Snowfall Index (RSI) Interactive Map
The Regional Snowfall Index (RSI) Interactive Map is a tool developed by NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) to document significant snowstorms impacting the eastern two-thirds of the United States. The RSI ranks snowstorm impacts on a scale from 1 to 5, similar to the Fujita scale for tornadoes or the Saffir-Simpson scale for hurricanes. (ncei.noaa.gov)
What is the Regional Snowfall Index (RSI)?
The RSI is a scale used by NOAA to assess the societal impact of winter storms in the eastern two-thirds of the United States and classify them into one of six categories. The system was first implemented in 2014, replacing the Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale (NESIS) system. The NCDC has retroactively assigned RSI values to almost 600 historical storms that have occurred since 1900. (en.wikipedia.org)
How Does the RSI Work?
The RSI evaluates snowstorms based on several factors, including snowfall amounts, storm coverage, and population affected. Each region has specific thresholds for snowfall amounts that correspond to different RSI categories. For example, in the Northeast, a typical location will get 16 inches of snow about once every 10 years and 20 inches about once every 25 years, so the thresholds are 4, 10, 20, and 30 inches. (en.wikipedia.org)
How to Use the RSI Interactive Map
The RSI Interactive Map allows users to visualize the impact of significant snowstorms across different regions. By selecting a specific area on the map, users can view detailed information about past snowstorms, including their severity and the affected regions. This tool is valuable for understanding historical snowstorm impacts and for planning purposes. (ncei.noaa.gov)
Accessing the RSI Interactive Map
To explore the RSI Interactive Map, visit the NCEI's website. This resource provides comprehensive data on historical snowstorms and their societal impacts, offering valuable insights for researchers, planners, and the general public. (ncei.noaa.gov)
Understanding the RSI and utilizing the Interactive Map can enhance preparedness and response strategies for future snowstorms, ensuring communities are better equipped to handle winter weather events.