Disaster managers benefit from meteorology masterclass

An expert overview of how weather works with a focus on the practical application of knowledge and tools was highly valued by participants at the first Meteorology for Disaster Managers Masterclass in Sydney on 6 June.

Under the guidance of a Bureau of Meteorology forecaster, participants gained invaluable insights to deepen their understanding of weather phenomena and the science behind hazards, which disaster managers commonly address.

“The presenter’s knowledge was outstanding – great content and relatable,” one participant wrote.

The masterclass provided those with limited and more advanced weather experience the chance to upgrade their knowledge and skills across a range of areas including how to identify and understand highs, lows, ridges and troughs on weather charts through to specific hazards such as floods, storms, fire weather and heatwaves.

The masterclass also provided attendees with the opportunity to become ‘super users’ of the Bureau of Meteorology’s website, which contains a wealth of information to help support decision making for disaster resilience.

With hints and tips from a professional meteorologist, participants learned how to use advanced features and settings in tools, including MetEye and radar pages to access tailored information to suit the specific interests and needs of disaster managers monitoring an unfolding situation.

AIDR is planning to schedule further masterclasses later this year. For more information and to register your interest please email: events@aidr.org.au