National Weather Service meteorologists across Florida are launching a statewide virtual training initiative this summer to help residents better understand tropical forecasts and prepare for upcoming storms.
The free, four-day program runs from July 27 through July 30, offering three identical one-hour sessions each day at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 7 p.m. EDT. Anyone with a computer or mobile device can join, though organizers are capping registration at 1,000 participants per session.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between complex meteorological data and everyday decision-making. According to the agency, the goal is to “help keep YOU in the tropical-weather-know so you and yours can respond appropriately when tropical weather hazards threaten.” Organizers stated they want to make official forecasts “meaningful and actionable” so residents can make the best safety choices.
The curriculum is broken down into specific daily themes tracking the life cycle of a storm. Day one focuses on initial preparation, followed by “hunkering down” during a live event on day two. The third day covers post-storm safety hazards, and the final day concludes with a panel discussion featuring experts from the National Hurricane Center and the Florida Division of Emergency Management to discuss past lessons learned.
While the program heavily references Florida-specific resources, meteorologists note that the core training material applies to anyone living in the path of tropical cyclones.
Participants will be muted during the large-scale sessions but can submit text questions through an interactive Q&A tool and an online form. The National Weather Service is also providing downloadable digital resources in both English and Spanish, including video recordings, slide decks, and informational handouts.
Attendees who complete the daily sessions can screenshot a certificate of completion at the end of the presentation or request a personalized version via email. Advance registration is required to secure a spot and receive the virtual meeting links.
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