Intro to Thunderstorm Lab

Classroom preparation will include thunderstorm forecasting basics, structure and evolution of supercell thunderstorms, spotter techniques and severe weather safety. Students will be involved in daily forecast discussions and weather analysis and will journal their storm chase experiences as they observe severe weather events.

Credit Hours Min: 2.00

Lecture Hours Min: 1.00

Lab Hours Min: 2.00

Repeatable: Can be repeated two times for credit

Course Objectives

1. Demonstrate severe thunderstorm safety
2. Differentiate thunderstorm types
3. Recognize severe thunderstorm threats visually
4. Identify significant structures of thunderstorms
5. Analyze pre-storm environments for the potential for severe weather
6. Evaluate forecasting and nowcasting skill
7. Reflect upon the storm chasing experience in terms of group dynamics, ethical considerations, public service, and its scientific value

Topical Outline

1. Basic thunderstorm safety
2. Storm chasing logistics
3. Safety considerations in storm chasing
4. Thunderstorm basics
5. Understanding the role and purpose of a storm spotter
6. Understanding thunderstorm environments from an ingredients-based approach
7. Identification of various features of thunderstorm development and evolution
8. Weather analysis
9. Severe weather forecasting and terminology
10. Storm chasing history, responsibilities, and ethics
11. Understanding thunderstorm morphology
12. Ethical considerations in surveying storm damage

Methods of Evaluation

Students must be evaluated using a combination of the following methods: Attendance and active engagement in class activities Tests/quizzes or some other form of content assessment Participation in field work Individual or group projects Focused reflection papers and/or journaling Participation in group activities