Tropical Weather Forecasting

Cruisers are naturally drawn to the tropics by the promise of shimmering blue water, warm sandy
beaches, and predictable trade winds. However, the tropics are also the breeding ground for nature’s
most destructive storms – tropical cyclones. The weather in the tropics can be far from relaxing.

Weather forecasting in the tropics is very different than forecasting in the mid-latitudes. Tropical
Weather Forecasting begins with a review of the prevailing weather patterns in the tropics. From there,
we will discuss where to find weather forecasting products covering the region and learn how to
interpret them. We will also delve into resources that cover the formation, movement, and evolution of
tropical cyclones (tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes). If your cruising plans include the
tropics, do not miss this introduction to tropical weather forecasting.