Hurricanes, Response, Preparedness at TAMIU Prof Development Course

Hurricane season is still upon us and it’s not too late to learn the nature of the hurricane season and where these storms form. Find out more at the next professional development course presented by the Texas A&M International University South Texas Border Security Institute and the TAMIU Center for the Earth and Environmental Studies (TCEES) on Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 6:30 – 8 p.m. in Bob Bullock Hall, room 224.

The seminar, “Introduction to Storms,” is free and open to the public, but first responders are highly encouraged to attend.

“The briefing will explain the concepts associated with storm systems, the basis of hurricanes and tropical cyclones, the nature of the hurricane season, where storms form and storms that have impacted Texas in addition to hurricane preparedness and response,” said Dr. Claudia E. San Miguel, director, TAMIU’s criminal justice program.

She added that hurricane hazards such as storm surge and inland flooding will also be discussed as will the National Weather Service forecast process, issuance of watches and warnings and how to access information online.

Course instructors are Dr. Marvin E. Bennett, TAMIU associate professor of geosciences, and Dr. Kenneth J. Tobin, director, TCEES, and TAMIU associate professor of geosciences. They have both worked in issues associated with climatology and disaster mitigation in the South Texas borderlands region with significant funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, NASA and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Their current research focuses on developing geographic information systems to support Texas Military Forces training and adjustment of satellite precipitation products to support monitoring in regions of the planet which have sparse meteorological networks.

This course is presented as part of a comprehensive program designed to provide the training and expertise required for personnel working to secure the nation’s southern border. Partners include TAMIU, the Texas National Guard, Laredo Community College, and various federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

For more information, contact Dr. San Miguel at csanmiguel@tamiu.edu or 326.2529 or visit offices in Dr. F. M. Canseco Hall 302J.

University office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu