Getting the average of several typhoon trajectories

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on methods for calculating the average of multiple typhoon trajectories, emphasizing that the average trajectory is not a straight line but rather a range represented by straight red lines for simplicity. Participants suggest starting with the totaling of dx and dy steps for each 6-hour interval to derive an average migration vector, which includes direction and travel velocity. The importance of understanding the convex hull of the dataset and the mapping projection used is also highlighted. Additionally, the NOAA website is recommended for accessing historical typhoon track data.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector mathematics and averaging techniques
  • Familiarity with mapping projections and their implications
  • Basic knowledge of statistical analysis for trajectory data
  • Experience with data visualization tools for representing trajectories
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for calculating average vectors in trajectory analysis
  • Explore the concept of convex hulls in data sets
  • Learn about mapping projections and their effects on data representation
  • Investigate the NOAA database for historical typhoon track data
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for meteorologists, data analysts, and researchers involved in studying typhoon trajectories and those interested in statistical methods for analyzing environmental data.

soybean101
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Hi
I am curious to know if there are methods of getting the average of several typhoon trajectories, with the average trajectory represented as straight red lines (for simplicity) as shown in the image. I am assuming that this average wouldn't be a straight line but be represented as a range. Each colored line corresponds to a different typhoon track, all of which are plotted for the entire year. This means that some trajectories were collected at different months. Time interval for each data point is six hours.
Since I am new to the field, I would just like to know if this was done already, and suggestions as to what/where I should begin to learn to do it. Thank you.
 

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Pretty good searchable information here for historical tracks https://coast.noaa.gov/hurricanes/

Should be able to search based on basin, year, name, location etc...
 
Welcome to PF.
Where with the right statistics you can get any answer you want.

When does an 'average trajectory' have meaning.
Asking why you require an average trajectory, may help work out what you actually need.
You already have the convex hull of the dataset.

What mapping projection have you used?
Do the numbers (without units) on the axes of your map have any meaning?

Start by totalling all the dx and the dy steps for each 6 hour pairs of points. That will give you an average migration vector, having both direction and travel velocity.

Once you have that information you can rotate the map and look at the 'cross path' density profile of the tracks. That will give you a median line.

Is your data set available? Can you attach it to your next post.
 

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