Who is it for?

Staff whose duties, within a meteorological organisation, require a basic general understanding of synoptic weather and the use made of numerical weather prediction output. These staff would typically be WMO Technicians. This course can also benefit those intending to move into a forecasting career if taken as part of an individual's development programme. Some knowledge of synoptic meteorology is necessary for this refresher course.

How will students benefit?

Through a better understanding of the weather and the output from numerical weather prediction models you will become more effective and confident in your duties, for example briefing aircrew, making observations, supporting forecasters, handling telephone enquiries and liaising with customers.

What is the aim of the course?

The aim of the course is to update and extend the student's meteorological knowledge and, where appropriate, facilitate career development.

What will students learn?

This course builds skills and knowledge that will enable the student to:

• Understand and apply the fundamental principles of synoptic meteorology to analyse synoptic observations, satellite and radar imagery and basic numerical weather prediction output.
  
• Use basic principles of cloud physics and the tephigram to determine likely cloud and precipitation formation.
  

What does the course cover?

Week 1: Review of meteorological topics including air masses and fronts, cloud physics, convection and thunderstorms, surface and upper winds, tephigrams.

Week 2 (Mornings): Further topics in meteorology, including operational numerical weather prediction, satellite and radar imagery and new conceptual models.

Week 2 (Afternoons): Analysis and presentation of the day's weather features using operational equipment and techniques. The instructors will lead an end-of-day discussion, explaining the forecasting considerations of the prevailing situation.

The course consists of a mixture of presentations, video, discussion, weather briefings and group exercises to practice new skills. The second week provides for study of the current day's weather to further develop new skills.

What is the course duration?

The Meteorological Refresher Course is a two-week residential course at the Met Office College.

However, if appropriate facilities are available, this course could also be adapted and provided, by Met Office College instructors, at your organisation.

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