Help me with Skew-T diagram: Using it to forecast 24-48hrs ahead

[AggieMike88]

Need some assistance with the Skew-T diagram... (http://rucsoundings.noaa.gov/)

I want to use the diagram to forecast for a flight on Wednesday, May 29 from KDTO (Denton, TX) to KDKR, Crockett, TX. Planned departure from Denton is 0900 local and we will return same day, departing about 1430 local.

I know the basics of reading the diagram once I got it up, but I'm sketchy on what to put as parameters to get the model to provide a forecast view.

Based on what I see from Weather.com, I'm currently at 60% drive, based on predicted T-storm activity that might be going on during our return phase. But would like to learn more about how to get the most out of the weather products to make this decision. I also have a passenger on this flight that I need to provide at least a 24 hour notice about flying or driving.

Concerns are both the potential TS activity and being grounded by IFR conditions when it's time to return.

Help and constructive discussion from the gallery is appreciated.

 

[BillTIZ]

Link did not work.

Other information in the margins on most skewT diagrams give indications of storm potential. CAPE (convective avalable potential every), LI (lifted index), etc.

 

[azure]

Link did not work.

Link was mistyped -- not a valid URL format. Try http://rucsoundings.noaa.gov/.

 

[AggieMike88]

Link did not work.

Link fixed

Other information in the margins on most skewT diagrams give indications of storm potential. CAPE (convective avalable potential every), LI (lifted index), etc.

Correct. But question was how to get the right data for a future time coordinate.

 

[RV10flyer]

Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. South southeast wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

http://forecast.weather.gov/product...WD&product=AFD&format=CI&version=1&glossary=1

http://www.stormchaser.niu.edu/machine/fcstsound.html

If I had to decide Tue AM, then I'd probably plan to drive. If I could wait until Tue PM or Wed AM then you may be back home before the TS move in from the NW. Forecast ceilings Wed AM look to be MVFR. I would not fly without on board wx, recent crosswind experience and sick sacks. Be safe.

 

[AggieMike88]

Had my question answered by ScottD. To look forward beyond 24 hours, use the GFS option.