We’ve probably all watched the local TV weatherperson and wondered just what they do to create the forecast they give us. What equipment do they use? What kind of training do they need? How do they determine when conditions are ripe for certain types of storms, whether temperatures will rise or fall, whether or not they should break into TV programs to provide a breaking weather update? What is the science behind weather forecasting?
In this program, learn from St. Louis’ KTVI Fox2 meteorologist Chris Higgins, take a tour of his weather studio, and find out what goes into creating a forecast. The program focuses on two very different spring days of actual St. Louis weather—one with clear skies and temperatures in the sixties and one where conditions produced dangerous storms and tornadoes. How were the forecasts created? What technology was used to follow the changing weather conditions on that stormy day? What conditions forced the announcement of a tornado watch and later a tornado warning? How does Mr. Higgins read that Doppler radar and pinpoint where the tornado is located? How does he take what he has learned and translate into understandable language for every TV viewer? We’re also joined by storm spotter/storm chaser/photojournalist, George Wise who shares images and information about his role in helping Chris report the weather.
