WaterAware

Did you know that the National Weather Service (NWS) can visit your classroom and talk with your students? The NWS hydrology outreach team, WaterAware, consists of a group of on-demand hydrology outreach representatives who can be scheduled for in-person or virtual educational sessions.

Why Hydrology? 

Flooding and drought are among the most fatal and costly weather-related phenomena. A powerful way to diminish damage to life and property due to these disasters is to provide education on flood safety, drought mitigation, and the science behind National Weather Service river and flood forecasts. WaterAware does just that by serving as the NWS hydrology outreach program for ages K-adult. 

How Does It Work? 

WaterAware offers a variety of high quality hydrology and water resources materials and activities that are tailored to each age group! Whether it is talking about river basics, the water cycle, drought, floods and flood safety, water supply, or forecasting, a NWS hydrologist can pop into the classroom to speak to students of all ages. 

WaterAware also offers a Hydro Hotseat simulation that allows students to experience river forecasting from the perspective of a NWS hydrologist. Available to ages 12 and up, students will learn about the tools hydrologists use to forecast river levels using a real-life flooding scenario. The Junior Hydrologist program is also available for grades 7-12, awarding certificates for students who participate in 4 educational sessions during a 6 month period.

To sign up for a free in-person or virtual session, go to Hydrology (Rivers) and use the outreach request form.

If you have questions, please contact amanda.roberts@noaa.gov.