Map and Forecast Interpretation Course
Why this course?
The Map and Forecast Interpretation Course
This course provides you with the essential tools to understand and analyze meteorological information. Master reading synoptic maps, identify frontal systems and pressure centers, and interpret short- and medium-term forecasts. Learn to anticipate weather changes and make informed decisions in various activities. This course is ideal for weather enthusiasts, professionals in the field, and anyone interested in understanding the weather.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Analysis: exercises with real maps and forecast simulations.
- Online Tools: access to meteorological data platforms and interactive visualization.
- Technical Glossary: understanding fundamental meteorological terminology.
- Diverse Applications: fishing, navigation, agriculture, and outdoor activities.
- Certificate of Completion: accredits your knowledge in map and forecast interpretation.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 26-07-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Meteorology enthusiasts who want to fully understand the information provided by weather maps and forecasts.
- Professionals in the agricultural and livestock sectors who need to interpret weather information to optimize their decisions.
- Outdoor enthusiasts (hiking, boating, etc.) who want to improve their safety and planning by anticipating weather conditions.
- Students and professionals in environmental science and geography who require a solid foundation in interpreting meteorological data.
- Anyone interested in developing a deep understanding of weather maps and forecasts for their daily life.
Learning Flexibility Adapted to your pace: 24/7 access to content, discussion forums, and practical exercises consolidate your knowledge.
Objectives and competencies
Anticipating and mitigating weather risks:
“Interpret weather forecasts and adapt the voyage plan, considering the safety of the crew and cargo.”
Optimize strategic decision-making:
“Analyze complex scenarios, considering risks, opportunities, and the long-term impact on profitability and sustainability.”
Navigate with precision and safety:
Interpret nautical information (charts, publications, tides, currents) and assess risks.
Visualizing complex climate patterns:
“Interpreting data from multiple sources (satellites, buoys, numerical models) and anticipating impacts on navigation.”
Understanding local atmospheric dynamics:
Interpret wind, temperature, and humidity patterns to anticipate short-term weather changes relevant to operations.
Adapting strategies to changing conditions:
“Prioritize safety, using all available resources (electronic charts, radars, navigational aids) and communicating decisions to the bridge.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Marine Meteorology: Basic Concepts and Atmospheric Variables
- Onboard Meteorological Instrumentation: Barometers, Thermometers, Anemometers, Hygrometers
- Interpretation of Synoptic Charts: Analysis of Isobars, Fronts, and Pressure Centers
- Wind and Wave Forecasting: Numerical Models, Significant Waves, Height, and Period
- Ocean Currents: Types, Causes, and Effects on Navigation
- Sea Ice Formation: Types, Hazards, and Forecasting
- Hazardous Weather Phenomena: Fog, Storms, Tropical Cyclones, Icing
- Marine Meteorological Services: Warnings, Bulletins and information sources
Route planning considering weather conditions
Preparation of weather reports and communication with coastal stations
‘
- Introduction to Cartography and Spatial Reference Systems.
- Geographic Data Sources: Remote Sensing, Remote Sensors, and In-Situ Data.
- Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) and Surfaces: Creation, Analysis, and Applications.
- Spatial Analysis: Tools and Techniques for Interpreting the Environment.
- Spatial Statistics: Basic Concepts and Applications in Prediction.
- Spatial Regression Models: Prediction of Environmental and Socioeconomic Variables.
- Analysis of Spatial Patterns: Detection of Clusters and Anomalies.
- Predictive Modeling Based on Machine Learning: Algorithms and Applications.
- Advanced Cartographic Visualization: Design of Thematic Maps and Data Representation.
- Model Validation and Analysis of Uncertainty in prediction.
‘
- Earth’s Atmosphere: composition, structure, pressure, temperature
- Global Atmospheric Circulation: trade winds, jet stream, Hadley cells
- Air Masses and Fronts: types, characteristics, formation, evolution
- Clouds: classification, identification, formation, relationship with weather
- Precipitation: types, formation mechanisms, intensity, measurement
- Meteorological Instrumentation: thermometers, barometers, anemometers, hygrometers
- Interpretation of Synoptic Maps: isobars, fronts, pressure centers
- Marine Weather Bulletins: interpretation, use for navigation
- Warning Systems
early: storms, hurricanes, fog, ice
Using weather information in route planning
‘
- Introduction to Cartography: History, Map Types, and Projections
- Coordinate Systems: Geographic, UTM, Map Representation
- Basic Meteorology: Atmosphere, Pressure, Temperature, Humidity
- Meteorological Instrumentation: Thermometers, Barometers, Anemometers, Rain Gauges
- Clouds: Classification, Formation, and Their Relationship to Weather
- Air Masses and Fronts: Characteristics, Types, and Meteorological Effects
- Meteorological Maps: Interpretation of Symbols and Data
- Weather Forecasting: Empirical and Numerical Methods and Models
- Analysis of Meteorological Data: Statistical Tools and Software
- Applications of Cartography and Meteorology in Land Planning and Management risks
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - MĆ³dulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Marine Meteorology: Basic Concepts and Atmospheric Variables
- Onboard Meteorological Instrumentation: Barometers, Thermometers, Anemometers, Hygrometers
- Interpretation of Synoptic Charts: Analysis of Isobars, Fronts, and Pressure Centers
- Wind and Wave Forecasting: Numerical Models, Significant Waves, Height, and Period
- Ocean Currents: Types, Causes, and Effects on Navigation
- Sea Ice Formation: Types, Hazards, and Forecasting
- Hazardous Weather Phenomena: Fog, Storms, Tropical Cyclones, Icing
- Marine Meteorological Services: Warnings, Bulletins and information sources
Route planning considering weather conditions
Preparation of weather reports and communication with coastal stations
‘
- Introduction to Cartography and Spatial Reference Systems.
- Geographic Data Sources: Remote Sensing, Remote Sensors, and In-Situ Data.
- Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) and Surfaces: Creation, Analysis, and Applications.
- Spatial Analysis: Tools and Techniques for Interpreting the Environment.
- Spatial Statistics: Basic Concepts and Applications in Prediction.
- Spatial Regression Models: Prediction of Environmental and Socioeconomic Variables.
- Analysis of Spatial Patterns: Detection of Clusters and Anomalies.
- Predictive Modeling Based on Machine Learning: Algorithms and Applications.
- Advanced Cartographic Visualization: Design of Thematic Maps and Data Representation.
- Model Validation and Analysis of Uncertainty in prediction.
‘
- Earth’s Atmosphere: composition, structure, pressure, temperature
- Global Atmospheric Circulation: trade winds, jet stream, Hadley cells
- Air Masses and Fronts: types, characteristics, formation, evolution
- Clouds: classification, identification, formation, relationship with weather
- Precipitation: types, formation mechanisms, intensity, measurement
- Meteorological Instrumentation: thermometers, barometers, anemometers, hygrometers
- Interpretation of Synoptic Maps: isobars, fronts, pressure centers
- Marine Weather Bulletins: interpretation, use for navigation
- Warning Systems
early: storms, hurricanes, fog, ice
Using weather information in route planning
‘
- Introduction to Cartography: History, Map Types, and Projections
- Coordinate Systems: Geographic, UTM, Map Representation
- Basic Meteorology: Atmosphere, Pressure, Temperature, Humidity
- Meteorological Instrumentation: Thermometers, Barometers, Anemometers, Rain Gauges
- Clouds: Classification, Formation, and Their Relationship to Weather
- Air Masses and Fronts: Characteristics, Types, and Meteorological Effects
- Meteorological Maps: Interpretation of Symbols and Data
- Weather Forecasting: Empirical and Numerical Methods and Models
- Analysis of Meteorological Data: Statistical Tools and Software
- Applications of Cartography and Meteorology in Land Planning and Management risks
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to cartography: history, types of maps, and projections
- Reference systems: geographic coordinates, datum, ellipsoids
- Representation of relief: contour lines, shading, hypsometric tints
- Isobars: definition, properties, and relationship with wind
- Synoptic analysis: interpretation of surface and upper-level maps
- Atmospheric modeling: fundamentals, types of models (numerical, statistical)
- Meteorological variables: temperature, humidity, pressure, wind, precipitation
- Meteorological instrumentation: weather stations, radiosondes, satellites
- Mapmaking Meteorological software and visualization tools
Applications of atmospheric mapping and modeling: weather forecasting, climatology, navigation
‘
- Earth’s Atmosphere: composition, structure, pressure, temperature
- Solar Radiation: spectrum, energy balance, differential heating
- Global Atmospheric Circulation: trade winds, jet stream, Hadley cells
- Air Masses and Fronts: formation, characteristics, types of fronts
- Pressure Systems: anticyclones, cyclones, troughs, ridges
- Clouds and Precipitation: classification, formation, types of rain, snow, hail
- Meteorological Instrumentation: barometer, thermometer, anemometer, hygrometer, radar
- Interpretation of Weather Maps: isobars, isotherms, symbols, keys
- Forecasting: Numerical models, interpretation, limitations
- Marine meteorology: Waves, weather tides, sea ice, fog
‘
- Introduction to Meteorology: Basic Concepts, Atmosphere, and Meteorological Variables
- Meteorological Instrumentation: Weather Stations, Buoys, Satellites, and Radars
- Weather Maps: Symbols, Isobars, Fronts, Pressure Centers, and Systems
- Interpretation of Numerical Models: GFS, ECMWF, NAM, and WRF
- Weather Forecasting: Synoptic Analysis, Rules of Empiric, and Local Forecasts
- Hazardous Weather Phenomena: Storms, Fog, Ice, Wind, and Waves
- Marine Meteorology: Waves, Currents, Ice, and Coastal Conditions
- Creating Customized Forecasts: Practical Tools and Methods
- Presentation and communication of meteorological information: reports and alerts
- Analysis of case studies and application to decision-making
‘
- Introduction to Cartography: History, Types, and Map Projections.
- Cartographic Symbols: Natural and Artificial Elements, Scales, and Conventions.
- Topographic Maps: Contour Lines, Profiles, and Relief Representation.
- Nautical Charts: Specific Symbols, Soundings, Hazards, and Navigational Aids.
- Digital Cartography: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Visualization Tools.
- Fundamentals of Meteorology: Atmosphere, Temperature, Pressure, and Wind.
- Cloud and Precipitation Formation: Classification and Atmospheric Processes.
- Weather Maps: Symbols, Isobars, Fronts, and Pressure Systems.
- Interpretation of Meteorological Data: Radar, Satellites, and Weather Stations.
- Weather forecasting: numerical models, short- and long-term forecasting, and applications.
‘
Career opportunities
- Meteorologist/Forecaster: Interpretation and analysis of data for accurate predictions.
- Cartographer/Surveyor: Creation and updating of accurate maps.
- Route Planner: Optimization of land, sea, or air routes.
- Risk Analyst: Hazard assessment based on climatic and geographical conditions.
- Farmer/Agricultural Manager: Optimization of crops according to weather forecasts.
- Pilot/Navigator: Use of maps and forecasts for safe navigation.
- Mountain Guide/Adventure Tourism Guide: Planning of safe activities in natural environments.
- Energy Technician
Renewables: Wind and solar resource assessment.
Emergency Manager: Coordination of responses to natural disasters.
Environmental Science Researcher: Analysis of climate and geographic data for scientific studies.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ā„ 24ā monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Decipher the Language of Weather: Learn to accurately interpret weather maps and forecasts.
- Expert Forecasting: Master the tools and techniques to anticipate weather conditions.
- Make Informed Decisions: Apply your knowledge to planning outdoor activities, agriculture, boating, and more.
- Practical Content: Real-world exercises and case studies for in-depth understanding.
- For All Levels: From beginners to advanced users, adaptable to your needs.
Testimonials
During my training in map interpretation and forecasting, I demonstrated a rapid grasp of the various meteorological models and their application in prediction. My analysis of the extratropical cyclone that affected the region on March 12, accurately anticipating its trajectory and intensity 24 hours in advance, was crucial for the timely activation of emergency protocols, minimizing the impact on the community.
The Marine Meteorology and Climatology course provided me with the necessary tools to understand and predict ocean conditions. I applied this knowledge in my research on the influence of El NiƱo on humpback whale migration routes, which resulted in a scientific publication and a presentation at a major international conference.
“I was able to accurately predict the trajectory and intensity of a severe storm using synoptic maps and numerical model data. Thanks to my interpretation, the team was able to anticipate the most affected areas and take preventive measures, minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of the population.”
During the Map Interpretation and Forecasting course, I successfully predicted the trajectory and intensity of a severe storm using radar data, satellite imagery, and numerical models. This prediction allowed my team to anticipate the highest-risk areas and issue early warnings, minimizing the impact and damage to the population.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3ā6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Cartography: History, Types, and Map Projections.
- Cartographic Symbols: Natural and Artificial Elements, Scales, and Conventions.
- Topographic Maps: Contour Lines, Profiles, and Relief Representation.
- Nautical Charts: Specific Symbols, Soundings, Hazards, and Navigational Aids.
- Digital Cartography: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Visualization Tools.
- Fundamentals of Meteorology: Atmosphere, Temperature, Pressure, and Wind.
- Cloud and Precipitation Formation: Classification and Atmospheric Processes.
- Weather Maps: Symbols, Isobars, Fronts, and Pressure Systems.
- Interpretation of Meteorological Data: Radar, Satellites, and Weather Stations.
- Weather forecasting: numerical models, short- and long-term forecasting, and applications.
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.