GPS III-9 - L-1 Day

Forecast Discussion: Today, a major winter storm system will continue to develop over the eastern US as it brings significant ice and snow to large portions of the country. A strong cold front associated with the storm will move into the Florida panhandle this afternoon, but most of the state will experience near-record high temperatures and dry conditions due to the enhanced south/southwesterly winds ahead of the front. Tomorrow morning, the front will bring scattered showers to East Central Florida as it pushes through the region. Behind the front, much colder and drier air will filter in as northerly winds significantly increase with the tightening pressure gradient. These winds will be the main concern for the primary attempt on Monday night, as they are expected to approach and periodically exceed liftoff constraints. Additionally, elevated winds and waves in the recovery area behind the departing storm will be a watch item. On Tuesday, winds at both the launch site and recovery area will decrease as high pressure pushes into the Southeast, relaxing the pressure gradient. This will allow for very favorable launch conditions, with the only concern being the negligible risk of a Cumulus Cloud Rule violation.