Instructor: Dr. Dean A. Morss, Rigge Sci Rm 108C, 280-5759; damorss@creighton.edu

Text: The principal reference will be "Forecaster’s Guide to Tropical Meteorology", by G. Atkinson ( AWSTR 240, Aug 1995). A number of additional readings will be provided to supplement the basic text. These include:

-- Tropical Meteorology; G.C. Asnani; Indian institute of Tropical Meteorology, 1993; 2 volumes

Global View of the Origin of Tropical Disturbances and Storms - Gray

Hurricane Forecasting - Gray

A Global View of Tropical Cyclones, Elsberry, et.al.

Course Objectives:

The tropics have a significant impact on the daily variations of weather throughout the world. Consequently, knowledge of the tropical environment will aid development of dynamical and synoptic analyses that tie the atmosphere to the earth as a whole. The course will focus on the physical processes influencing the tropical region and the effects these processes have upon the local region as well as global implications. A practical approach involving daily synoptic briefings, tropical cyclone analysis, and forecasting will be emphasized throughout the term.

a. Attendance: Attendance is essential to successful completion of the material; absences should be discussed with the instructor if known ahead of time.

b. Participation: Preparation and presentation of daily synoptic discussions is an essential part of this course. Participation in class discussions is also essential each student fully understands the processes at work within the tropics.

c. Grading: Grades will be based upon three components as discussed below:

Exams: There will be several short exams during this course, to be held on the dates identified on the Class Schedule. These exams will consist of a mix of short essay, multiple choice, and fill-in type questions. In total these exams will account for approximately 60% of the grade.

Weather Briefings: Each student will present daily synoptic briefings for their area of responsibility. All sources of data, including satellite imagery will be used in preparing these briefings. In total, this activity will determine approximately 20% of the student’s grade.

3) Written Report and Presentation: The final portion of the student’s grade will be based upon a written report and presentation to the class. Each student team of two will select or be given a topic for the report, and summarize available material in a 5 - 8 page report, with references. The report will also be presented to the class in a 10 - 20 minute discussion of the findings. This activity will determine the final 20% (approximately) of the student’s grade.

The schedule of readings, lectures, exams and due dates for reports and presentations is given below