Improving atmospheric river forecasts

The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, an Air Force Reserve unit assigned to the 403rd Wing at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, collects atmospheric data during an atmospheric river mission over the Pacific Ocean Feb. 3, 2025. The data they collect improves forecasts. The unit has been flying missions out of Mather Airfield, California, and Yokota Air Base, Japan, this winter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lt. Col. Tobi Baker)