Oklahoma Climatological Survey

Jeffrey B. Basara

Director of Research, Oklahoma Climatological Survey

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Meteorology

B.S. Atmospheric Science (1994), Purdue University; M.S. Meteorology (1998), Ph.D. Meteorology (2001), University of Oklahoma

Dr. Basara is interested in observational and analytical tools used to quantify the exchange of mass and energy between the land surface and the atmosphere. A key component of his research involves the use of the Oklahoma Mesonet to gain new insights into processes within the land-atmosphere continuum. His past research activities have demonstrated the importance of soil texture, soil moisture, and vegetation conditions in modifying the development and structure of the planetary boundary layer. Dr. Basara's current research includes the validation of remotely sensed soil moisture and skin temperature from satellite mounted instruments, the development, validation, and improvement of land surface models used in numerical weather prediction, droughts, flash floods, urban meteorology, and the physical processes which impact the development of the planetary boundary layer.

Soil Moisture
Research at OCS is concentrated on a variety of topics. However, the backbone of research at OCS is the Oklahoma Mesonet. From testing new sensors, to validating satellite measurements and model output, to participation in specialized field research programs, the Oklahoma Mesonet provides boundless opportunities for state-of-the-art research focused on Oklahoma. In turn, the knowledge gained from such research projects is used to more accurately assess and predict the onset of drought conditions, develop new technologies, and improve weather forecasting.