Forecasting and Verification of Extreme Weather
Travel Dates: May 24 - June 7, 2025
Travel through the Great Plains to see extreme weather firsthand. In this field course, you will look at extreme weather patterns that influence the region and analyze weather maps to determine timing and location of weather events. Thunderstorms and their hazards will be a particular focus in this course. Some coursework to take place online in spring, with travel occurring immediately following the spring semester. (2 undergraduate credits; Department of Geology, Geography, and Environmental Science)
A field experience and travel study course to the Great Plains of the United States offered by the Department of Geography, Geology, and Environmental Science in cooperation with the Office of Continuing Education.
Cost Information
Cost: $2,100 (estimate). Based on 8 full paying participants. Includes lodging, transportation, entrance fees, and instructional costs including tuition for two undergraduate credits. Financial aid may apply. Credit registration information and fee schedules/deadlines published in University timetables do not apply to this program.
Where will I go?
Our travel will occur throughout the Great Plains and Midwestern. Route will be determined each day based on where storms are possible as the primary goal is to forecast and experience thunderstorms and their hazards. Any days in which storms are not possible will be spent exploring landmarks highlighting the physical geography of the Great Plains.
Past trips have taken us to Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Wyoming, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Illinois, Iowa, and Arkansas. Each year is different and unique.
What will I study?
In this course you will explore the various extreme weather patterns that influence the Great Plains, with a particular focus on thunderstorms and their hazards. You will analyze weather maps to determine the location and timing of extreme weather events throughout the region while studying the general physical geography of area. You’ll complete pre-travel work on climatology, physical geography, and storm safety online, and lead weather briefings and keep a travel journal while in the field.
This course is taught by Dr. John Frye. To learn more about Professor Frye, visit this page.
Who can come?
This course is open to all students, but instructor consent is required. Space is very limited. Completed application packet is required to enroll.
Contact Us
Request permission to enroll in this course by filling out the form or contact us by:
Continuing Education - Travel Study Programs Office, UW-Whitewater, Roseman 2017, 800 W. Main St. Whitewater, WI 53190 | Phone: (262) 472-1003 or toll free at (800) 621-5376 | Fax: (262) 472-5210 | E-mail: cetravelstudy@uww.edu
