Understanding & Forecasting Thunderstorms - Narragansett Bay

Thunderstorms can quickly spoil an outing in many ways—strong winds, large waves, dangerous lightning, hail, or visibility-limiting rain. This 3-part live webinar series will examine the various types of thunderstorms and the ingredients that lead to their formation. The webinar will cover why thunderstorms often ‘pop-up’ late on summer afternoons and why some storms have short life-spans while others persist for several hours. The webinar will also introduce the many readily-available resources for forecasting and monitoring thunderstorms. 

The webinar is designed for all boaters who would like to reduce their chances of a hair-raising or windswept encounter with a thunderstorm. 

What you will learn the following at the webinar: 

·         February 24, 2021

• A few basic weather principles.
• How to decode the confusing symbols, color shading, and meteorological shorthand on weather forecast maps.
• How to use Doppler Weather Radar to assess the development, monitor the evolution, and track the movement of thunderstorms.  
  

·         March 3, 2021

• The different types of thunderstorms.
• The conditions that lead to thunderstorm development and their life-cycle.
• How to recognize the large and small-scale weather patterns that promote thunderstorm development.
• The dynamics that lead to damaging downdrafts and lightning.
• The dynamics of the “Newport Bubble”.

·         March 10, 2021

• How to forecast the potential and nature of severe weather.
• How to integrate your knowledge of thunderstorm development and radar interpretation skills by reviewing several non-severe and severe historical weather events.
• The terminology used by the National Weather Service during hazardous and severe weather events.

The live webinar combines classroom instruction, case studies, and exercises to create an engaging learning experience.

Recordings
Don't worry if you can't attend one of the live sessions. Each session will be recorded and made available to all registered attendees until May 1, 2021.