Emergency managers on-line survey on extratropical and tropical cyclone forecast information: Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program/Storm Surge Roadmap

We report on a web-based survey of emergency managers (EMs) that is part of a larger body of work with the goal of better understanding how certain NOAA weather forecast products might improve public understanding and response to tropical cyclone (TC) and extratropical cyclone (ET) events. The target population was emergency managers in coastal regions of the Atlantic, Gulf, Pacific, and Alaska with 102 EMs completing the survey. When asked whether NWS should issue storm surge watches and warnings, these EMs answers reflect strong support for both - 83% agree a watch should be issued and 87% support a storm surge warning. They indicated that such products will result in the public paying more attention, a better-informed response, and greater emphasis on coastal flooding in emergency management decision making. While the major focus of the survey was on storm surge products, EMs from areas subject to TCs were also asked to comment about several forecast track and wind graphics. When asked about their relationships with local WFOs, all give positive responses. They were also afforded an opportunity to discuss any special issues or challenges they have in receiving and using NWS ET and TC products. Many of the EMs expressed appreciation for the opportunity to provide input into NWS severe storm products and services and welcome continued collaboration.