Understanding URMA

Published 2026-07-22 · Updated 2026-07-22

The Unidata Rasdaman Monitoring Application (URMA) aids in the estimation of wind gusts. For contractors and adjusters dealing with storm damage claims, accurate wind gust estimates are crucial for assessments, repairs, and insurance claims.

Introduction

When dealing with storm damage, understanding the forces at play is crucial. One tool that can aid in this process is the Unidata Rasdaman Monitoring Application (URMA), although StormAuditor relies on its proprietary Storm Auditor Wind Estimate (SAWE-2.9) for wind analysis. The primary method of estimating wind gusts used by StormAuditor involves a complex analysis that takes into account various data sources, including NOAA ASOS/AWOS station peak-gust archives and Visual Crossing Weather API.

What happened / What it is

URMA is a monitoring application, but StormAuditor utilizes SAWE-2.9, a station-consistent background wind field built from HRRR and daily peak gusts. This process involves a two-pass Cressman/Barnes objective analysis against ASOS/AWOS measured gusts and measured-qualifier NWS LSRs from that day. Estimated-qualifier LSRs are never used as wind values.

How StormAuditor measures it

StormAuditor's SAWE-2.9 methodology estimates wind gusts through a rigorous analysis that incorporates multiple data sources. The goal is to provide accurate estimates of wind speeds that could have caused damage. For instance, asphalt shingles typically begin showing functional wind damage, such as tab creasing and lifting, between 55–70 mph gusts, with widespread blow-off becoming common above 75–100 mph gusts.

Practical guidance

For contractors and adjusters, understanding the wind gusts that a property was exposed to can help in assessing damage and determining repair costs. It's essential to consult the StormAuditor Wind Explorer and the date-of-loss research tool for detailed wind gust data and to assess whether the damage was likely caused by wind.

Limitations

While tools like URMA and StormAuditor's SAWE-2.9 can estimate wind gusts, there are limitations to consider. Station-based wind observations under-sample microbursts; peak gusts between stations can exceed reported values. Therefore, it's crucial to consider multiple data sources and consult with experts when assessing storm damage.

Related StormAuditor tools

FAQ

1. What size hail causes significant damage to roofs?

Significant damage to roofs is typically associated with hail sizes of 1.00 inches or larger, but this can vary depending on the type of roofing material.

2. How do I know if my property was hit by a tornado or severe winds?

To determine if your property was hit by a tornado or severe winds, consult StormAuditor's storm history tool and review the NWS/NOAA storm reports for your area.

3. Can StormAuditor prove that wind caused damage to my property?

No, StormAuditor cannot prove that wind or any specific weather event caused damage to your property. StormAuditor provides estimates of wind gusts and other weather conditions, but determining the cause of damage requires a thorough inspection by qualified professionals.

4. What wind speed is considered damaging to most roofs?

Wind speeds of 70 mph or higher can be damaging to roofs, especially for older or weaker roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles.

5. When did the last severe thunderstorm warning expire in my area?

To find out when the last severe thunderstorm warning expired in your area, use StormAuditor's address-lookup tool to access historical weather data for your location.

6. How accurate are radar-derived wind gust estimates?

Radar-derived wind gust estimates, like those from StormAuditor's SAWE-2.9, can be highly accurate but may under-sample microbursts and have limitations due to radar gaps and station spacing.