Here, we compare the SSM/I-based 32- and 20-hour TRaP product estimates with Georges storm totals assembled by the Office of Hydrology (OH) and the NESDIS/Synoptic Analysis Branch (SAB). The OH storm totals shown are a combination of NEXRAD rainfall estimates, USGS gauge network data, and NWS cooperative observer rainfall network data that spans more than four days of the storm's lifecycle. GOES derived estimates span approximately three days from the 27 to the 30th.

The majority of the rainfall totals occurred between the time Georges made landfall early on the 28th and during the day on the 29th. Notice a large area of totals exceeding 10 inches from southern Mississippi and Alabama, to the western Florida panhandle.

Now compare the OH totals with those generated using the TRaP method 32 hours prior to landfall. We notice comparable values if the storm's motion had been slowed as suggested by forecast guidance. Similar agreement between rainfall totals is seen with the TRaP method applied 20 hours prior to landfall. Inserting into the TRaP method a slightly slower storm motion (1 or 2 knots), as suggested by the forecast guidance, would have indicated that amounts in excess of 30 inches were possible in localized areas.

Comparing GOES derived storm rainfall totals with those generated using the TRaP method also shows overall agreement, particularly the higher amounts along coastal regions. GOES derived rainfall estimates provide the forecaster with another valuable tool to monitor storms and significant rainfall events within the integrated framework of radar and satellite.