National Weather Service Forecast Office and UA Water Whys Produces a New Weather Safety Messaging for Tucson International Airport

The National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office in Tucson, in collaboration with Tucson International Airport (KTUS) and the University of Arizona’s Water Whys VIP Team, has launched a new Weather Safety Messaging Project aimed at educating out-of-state travelers on three of Arizona’s most significant weather hazards: 

Extreme Heat, Dust Storms, and Flash Floods 

"Tucson International Airport welcomes over 4 million travelers annually. With rising temperatures and intensifying storms due to climate change, raising awareness about Arizona’s unique and potentially dangerous weather conditions is more important than ever." 

To meet this need, the Water Whys team—an interdisciplinary group of undergraduate and graduate students, along with faculty and staff with expertise in hydrology, broadcast meteorology, and graphic design—has created a series of engaging visuals and animations. 

Specific individuals who worked on the graphics for the UA are Sara Kobilka, Water Whys Education Coordinator, students Anika McKee and Emma Gui Riehle, and graphic designer Ryan Hunt.  

"These materials, developed in close coordination with NWS and KTUS, will be featured on the large welcome screen near the airport’s security checkpoint and on monitors throughout the baggage claim area." 

Learn more at this KGUN9 News piece: https://www.kgun9.com/news/community-inspired-journalism/southside-news/graphic-weather-new-airport-signs-warn-travelers-of-tucsons-unique-weather-hazards