This 2 to 2.5 hour self-paced course makes use of text, interactive graphics, case-studies and activities to introduce the basic concepts of impact-based forecast warning systems. After completing this course students will be better equipped to help their organization advance an impact-based approach in hydro-meteorological services, disaster risk reduction and related areas. (Please note, in order to complete the modules in this course, you must allow pop-up windows from this site in your browser.)
As part of the Caribbean project funded by the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) Initiative, WMO this self-paced elearning course makes use of text, interactive graphics, case-studies and activities to introduce the use of the Potential Tropical Cyclone (PTC) advisory and associated forecast guidance from the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC). (The US NHC is also a Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre (RSMC) for the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
A potential tropical cyclone is a tropical disturbance that is expected to develop into a tropical storm or hurricane and impact land areas within 48 hours. Effective use of these forecast products can be instrumental in improving the timeliness of impact-based warnings associated with developing tropical cyclones in the Caribbean.
This course is aimed primarily at the emergency management community, but it will also benefit forecasters in NMHSs.
Knowledge and actionable intelligence on weather, water and climate extremes are key to improve decision-making by disaster management, civil protection authorities and other stakeholders. Impact-based forecast and warning services (IBFWS) inform on the likelihood and severity of impacts to lives and property, considering exposure, and the physical, social, and economic dimensions of vulnerability to multi-hazards.
Knowing what the weather will do in terms of impacts, consequences and meaning, has more value for decision-making than simply knowing what the weather will be, i.e., a report on the predicted state and flux variables. Implementation of IBFWS supports the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services’ (NMHSs) efforts to increase value in service delivery.
The development of impact-based and impact forecasts entails the gathering of requirements, the establishment of infrastructure, technical development, operating and communication processes, and the identification of roles and responsibilities of all partners involved (WMO-No.1150 Part I and Part II). The main activities proposed for this workshop will address: Partnerships, training, recording of impacts, public awareness and education.
