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Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Storm and Hurricane Formation Course
This course provides you with an in-depth understanding of these extreme weather phenomena, from their origin and development to their devastating impact. Learn to identify the atmospheric conditions that lead to their formation…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts14 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Storm and Hurricane Formation Course?
The Storm and Hurricane Formation Course
This course provides you with an in-depth understanding of these extreme weather phenomena, from their origin and development to their devastating impact. Learn to identify the atmospheric conditions that lead to their formation, interpret key meteorological data, and predict their path and intensity. This program will equip you to mitigate the risks associated with these events and contribute to the safety of vulnerable communities.
Differential Advantages
- Detailed Analysis of Atmospheric Physics: Understanding the driving forces behind the formation of storms and hurricanes.
- Use of Numerical Prediction Models: Learn to work with cutting-edge tools to predict the behavior of these phenomena.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analysis of historical hurricanes and their impact on different regions of the world.
- Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies: Developing practical solutions to reduce vulnerability to these events.
- Flexible Format: Access to online content, interactive simulations, and Q&A sessions with experts.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Discover the science behind storms and hurricanes: Learn about their formation, development, and weather patterns.
- Weather data analysis: Interpret maps, satellite images, and predictive models to anticipate their trajectory and intensity.
- Prevention and mitigation strategies: Learn best practices to reduce the impact of these natural phenomena.
- Simulation and modeling tools: Use specialized software to better understand their dynamics and behavior.
- Emergency preparedness and risk management: Acquire key skills to protect lives and property from the threat of storms and hurricanes.
- Join our training and become an expert in extreme weather.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Tropical Meteorology, Atmospheric Dynamics and General Conditions for the Formation of Storms and Hurricanes
- Basic concepts of atmosphere, time and climate applied to the study of tropical storms, cyclones and hurricanes
- Vertical structure of the atmosphere and fundamental variables: temperature, pressure, humidity, stability and atmospheric instability
- General circulation of the atmosphere and its relationship with the formation of convective systems and tropical cyclones
- Role of the tropical ocean in the transfer of heat and humidity necessary for the development of intense storms
- Differences between convective storms, tropical storms, tropical depressions, cyclones and hurricanes
02
Processes of tropical genesis, convective development and initial evolution of cyclonic systems
- Tropical waves, low pressures and atmospheric disturbances as seeds of tropical cyclogenesis
- Deep convective cloud formation and progressive organisation of storms in favorable ocean environments
- Role of convergence, divergence in height and initial rotation in the development of tropical systems
- Influence of atmospheric humidity, sea temperature and convective potential energy on early intensification
- Transition from tropical disturbance to depression and tropical storm: physical criteria and structural evolution
03
Hurricane internal structure, intensification and dynamics of severe tropical systems
- Structure of a hurricane: eye, eye wall, rain bands and organised cyclonic circulation
- Energy balance and maintenance of the tropical cyclone through latent heat exchange and atmospheric dynamics
- Rapid intensification and tropical storm strengthening processes in warm oceans
- Relationship between central pressure, wind speed and internal organisation of the hurricane
- Eye wall replacement cycles and structural changes during the evolution of the cyclone
04
Storm and Hurricane Observation, Monitoring, Forecast and Tools
- Factors that control the path of storms and hurricanes: atmospheric circulation, dorsals, troughs and currents Guidelines
- Meteorological observation techniques applied to the monitoring of tropical cyclones: satellites, radars, buoys and specialised aircraft
- Interpretation of satellite images and visual signatures associated with the development and intensification of hurricanes
- Numerical models of prediction and forecast of trajectory and intensity of tropical systems
- Hurricane forecast uncertainty: path cones, probable scenarios, and predictive limitations
05
CapStone Project for Formation Analysis, Evolution and Impact of a Tropical Storm or Hurricane in a Real or Simulated Case
- Selection of the case study: Tropical storm, cyclone or hurricane with meteorological and operational relevance
- Analysis of atmospheric and oceanic conditions that favored the formation of the selected system
- Reconstruction of the structural evolution, intensification and trajectory of the meteorological event studied
- Interpretation of products of observation and forecast used during the follow-up of the phenomenon
- Evaluation of impacts, risks and critical variables associated with the event in affected maritime or terrestrial areas
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Meteorologists and climatologists seeking to deepen their knowledge of atmospheric dynamics and cyclonic system modeling.Risk management and insurance professionals interested in damage assessment and the economic impact of extreme weather events.Civil engineers and architects requiring advanced knowledge for the design of resilient infrastructure against hurricane-force winds and flooding.E
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
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Student Reviews
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Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Understanding the atmospheric physics behind the genesis and evolution of these phenomena
- 02Interpreting and predicting the path and intensity of storms and hurricanes
- 03Assess and mitigate the risks associated with storms and hurricanes
- 04Develop skills in the use of simulation tools and models for the analysis of storms and hurricanes
- 05Effectively communicate information about storms and hurricanes to diverse audiences
- 06Apply the acquired knowledge to optimize response and preparedness strategies for these extreme weather events
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Meteorologist/Forecaster: Prediction and analysis of storm and hurricane formation and trajectory for government agencies, media outlets, and the private sector.
02Research Scientist: Participation in research projects to better understand the physical processes that drive the formation and evolution of these phenomena.
03Risk Analyst: Assessment of the potential impact of storms and hurricanes on infrastructure, populations, and ecosystems, to inform risk management and urban planning decisions.
04Environmental Consultant: Advising companies and governments on climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and the risks associated with extreme weather events.
05Numerical Modeling Specialist: Development and improvement of computational models to simulate the atmosphere and predict the behavior of storms and hurricanes.
06Science Educator/Communicator: Teaching and communicating knowledge about meteorology and climatology to students, the general public, and the media.
07Emergency Manager: Coordinating the response to natural disasters, including planning evacuations and distributing resources.
08Air Force/Navy Officer: Monitoring and analyzing weather conditions for air and maritime operations, including forecasting storms and hurricanes.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
The main difference lies in the intensity and organization: a hurricane is a tropical storm that has reached sustained winds of at least 119 km/h, presenting a closed and well-defined circulation around an eye.
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.
The latent heat released by the condensation of water vapor.
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 (3–6 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 Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate degree in Meteorology, Physics, Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Engineering, or a related field; or accredited professional experience in meteorological observation, climate data analysis, or natural hazard management.Prior Knowledge:Basic understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and atmospheric systems. Knowledge of statistics and data analysis is recommended.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of degree or experience certificates, ID/Passport, cover letter.Technical Requirements (for online courses):Compu
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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