Hydrology Professional Development Series (PDS) 1 : Provide Hydrologic Services

PCU 5: Enhance impact event operations, warnings, and decision support

Producers:
Tracy Clark, SRH
Melissa Smith, SH WFO UNR

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs):
Steve Buan, SCH NCRFC
Jason Johnson, SH WFO SJT
Tabitha Clarke, SH WFO LZK

Description of Job Competency to be Achieved :
Effectively communicate hydrometeorological and hydrological concepts to support external and internal partners and decision-makers with crucial information relating to high impact events while identifying and addressing evolving customer needs.

Description of Need :
Developing and maintaining strong partnerships within the organization and with federal, tribal, state and local entities is essential during high impact events. Identifying a partner’s decision thresholds in relation to hydrological and meteorological conditions is critical in the timely delivery of effective decision-making information, products, and services. Delivery of event analyses, scenarios, and current forecasts with associated confidence is conducted through briefings, written reports, and other methodologies to support high impact event response and recovery. The NWS must be adept at identifying unique support needs and be agile in developing and implementing flexible solutions to minimize societal impacts.

Abilities/Performance Elements:

DSS Structure:

Ability 1. Describe and demonstrate the role the NWS provides to the National Incident Management System in relation to decision support and high impact event response. Skill 1.1. Identify basic structure, terminology, and operating protocols of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Command (Skill) IC Title: IS-700.B: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-700.b IC Title: IS-800.C: National Response Framework, an Introduction Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-800.c Skill 1.2. Identify and describe the principles and organizational structure of the Incident Command System. IC Title: IS-100.C: Introduction to the Incident Command System, ICS 100 Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.c IC Title: IS 200.B - ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-200.b IC Title: IS 300.B - ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: Not available online. Register through State OEM IC Title: IS 400.B - Advanced ICS for Expanding Incidents Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: Not available online. Register through State OEM Skill 1.3. Explain the relationship between ICS and the National Incident Management System (NIMS). IC Title: IS-100.C: Introduction to the Incident Command System, ICS 100 Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.c Skill 1.4. Describe types of NWS DSS activities performed for high impact events, including: DSS performed at partner location (Mobile DSS) IC Title: FEMA IS-775 - EOC Management and Operations Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-775 Include information on what types of material to bring to a high impact event using the following tools: Maps EAPs E-19s Forecasts (Hydrologic and Meteorologic) Refer to PCU2 > Ability 2 > Skill 2.1 for related ICs IC Title: Quantitative Precipitation Forecasting Overview Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: River Forecasting Case Study Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Include information on how to be prepared for worst case scenarios and associated challenges: Technology limitations Physical challenges Access to necessities IC Title: IS-101.c: Preparing for Federal Disaster Operations: FEMA Lesson 2: Pre-Deployment and Check-In Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-101.c Decision support services performed at NWS Offices (NWS-based DSS), including: Construct easily accessible and well organized documents (including log sheets) in order to be best prepared ahead of any high impact events. Include information on how to form teams during high impact events IC Title: Crew Resource Management Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com

Partnerships/Decision Thresholds: Ability 2. Identify partners and users, their needs and decision making criteria. (NOTE: These abilities and skills are closely tied to PCU1) Skill 2.1. Identify the different roles, responsibilities, and needs of internal and external partners and users: Agency chain of command, methods of operation, levels of support, special communication protocols IC Title: Impact-Based Decision Support: Introduction to Core Partners Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: IS-15.b: Special Events Contingency Planning for Public Safety Agencies Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-15.b Skill 2.2. Define partners and users decision thresholds and criteria dependent on meteorological and/or hydrological conditions. Skill 2.3. Collect partner and user needs and decision thresholds/criteria for incorporation into NWS hydrometeorological and hydrologic products and services to enable more effective decision-making. IC Title: Communicating Risks in High-Impact Events Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Developing and Maintaining Emergency Operations Plans: Comprehensive Preparedness Guide (CPG) 101 Version 2.0 Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/programs/emischool/el361toolkit/assets/fema_cpg101.pdf IC Title: IS-241.a Decision Making and Problem Solving Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/emiweb/downloads/is241.pdf IC Title: IS-242.a Effective Communication Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/emiweb/is/is242b/student%20manual/sm_complete.pdf IC Title: Urban Flooding: It Can Happen in a Flash! Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com

NWS DSS Services: Ability 3. Apply sound situational awareness during the provision of decision support services. (NOTE: These abilities and skills are closely tied to PCU2) Skill 3.1. Assess the varying hydrometeorological and hydrologic environments that may impact hydrologic response in the high impact event area, such as: Assess the topography of the watershed(s) to determine slopes for surface runoff characteristics. IC Title: Runoff Processes Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Flash Flood Processes Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Examine soil types and ground cover to determine effects on runoff rates. IC Title: Runoff Processes Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Evaluate reservoir operations and river operations including diversions and additions that impact hydrologic conditions. IC Title: Streamflow Routing Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Identify unique geographic and watershed features (both natural and artificial) to determine influence on hydrologic operations, including the following: Burn Scars Levee Systems IC Title: Dams and Dam Failure - Module 1: Terminology and Open Channel Hydraulics Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Dams and Dam Failure - Module 2: St. Venant Equations, Modeling, and Case Study Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Locate urban areas within the impacted area to recognize effects on hydrologic operations, including the following: Stormwater drainage systems Flood prone areas (low water crossings, underpasses, etc.) IC Title: Flash Flood Case Studies Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Urban Flooding: It Can Happen in a Flash! Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Skill 3.2. Continuously analyze and integrate data and forecast information from a variety of sources into the decision support service process by reviewing and utilizing the abilities/skills identified in PCU2: Assess and collect meteorological data to maintain situational awareness Radar Satellite Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (QPF) RFC (River Forecasts, QPF, Contingencies, etc) Assess and collect hydrologic data to maintain situational awareness Rainfall observations RFC QPE River levels Spillway operations Identify and integrate local data networks such as: Remote Automated Weather Stations (RAWS) MESOWEST SNOTEL Local alert systems Identify and collect pertinent information and data relating to the high impact event from other federal agencies and local entities Federal Agencies (USACE, USGS, USBR, USFS, BLM, EPA, etc.) State Water and Environmental Agencies Regional and Local Water Authorities Tribal Authorities Private Sector Skill 3.3. Evaluate weather and hydrologic information to identify potential impacts due to or in response to a high impact event: Interpret changes in both meteorological and hydrologic information and assess the potential impacts on decision support, including: Examine information and assess the bearings on response activities IC Title: Communicating Risks in High-Impact Events Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Skill 3.4. Configure work environment to optimize situational awareness for NWS-based Decision Support Services (DSS) and Mobile DSS: Use weather and hydrology display systems to analyze meteorological and hydrologic data to maintain situational awareness, including: AWIPS IC Title: FY18 Warning Operations Course (WOC) - Flash Flood Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Internet web sites (e.g., www.weather.gov, water.weather.gov) NWSChat GRLevelX Google Earth Demonstrate ability to address technical issues with DSS equipment within a non-NWS environment, including: Connect to internet via aircard, wifi, cable, etc. Connect to printer Connect to local network Ability to share files IC Title: Deployment Basics for FEMA Response Partners Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=is-102.c

Ability 4. Deliver effective and consistent services to support planning, response, and/or recovery from high impact events. Skill 4.1. Design and construct effective and consistent briefing packages for communicating complex hydrologic concepts for by using the appropriate tool and dissemination method. Talking Points Graphicasts/Weather Stories Slide Show Presentations Multimedia Presentations Fact Sheets Web Interface GIS (Google Earth/ArcMap) IC Title: IS-29.A: Public Information Officer Awareness Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-29.a IC Title: IS-242.b Effective Communication Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-242.b IC Title: Getting Started with PowerPoint 2010 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Adding Images to Presentations in PowerPoint 2010 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Using Multimedia and Animations in PowerPoint 2010 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Advanced Slide Shows Tools in PowerPoint 2013 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Sharing and Protecting Presentations in PowerPoint 2016 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com Skill 4.2. Deliver effective briefings to communicate complex hydrologic concepts in clear, concise, and non-technical language. Demonstrate communication skills IC Title: Fire Weather Forecasting: Clear Communications, Second Edition Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: Sharing, Printing, Protecting and Delivery Presentations In PowerPoint 2013 Type: Formal Training (in LMS) URL/location: https://doc.csod.com IC Title: IS-29.A: Public Information Officer Awareness Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-29.a Employ non-scientific writing techniques and graphic generation. IC Title: Communicating Science to Non-Scientists Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFu3jaLmse0&feature=youtu.be Demonstrate use of communication tools, including: NWSChat WebEOC GoToMeeting/Webex/etc. Presentation Software Skill 4.3. Manage internal collaboration and communication channels throughout the duration of the high impact event, suing tool such as: NWSChat/12Planet Conference Calls NWS Event Reports Google Docs WikiPages/SharePoint AWIPS2 Collaboration Skill 4.4. Deliver a consistent and accurate message in the NWS products and services across the scope of the high impact response. Utilization of the following tools to communicate with external partners and users: Social Media (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) GoToMeeting NWSChat Multi-Media Briefing Software (e.g., Camtasia, PowerPoint) Google Earth/GIS Skill 4.5. Adapt and respond to a variety of briefing requirements while performing decision support services. Skill 4.6. Rehearse and perform press briefings and media interviews.

Ability 5. Review service assessments and case studies to understand the need for specialized graphics and forecast material that meet specific decision criteria and/or thresholds.

Partner Feedback: Ability 6. Evaluate NWS decision support services and incorporate partner feedback to improve NWS performance during high impact events. Skill 6.1. Evaluate decision support services and performance with partners and users to ensure effective planning, mitigation, forecast, and warning services for future high impact events. Assessment should focus on the following areas: NWS Hydrologic programs and services IC Title: S-102.C: Preparing for Federal Disaster Operations: FEMA Response Partners Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-102.c Communication tools, including: Conference calls Email list-serves NWSChat or similar tools Multi-agency coordination IC Title: S-102.C: Preparing for Federal Disaster Operations: FEMA Response Partners Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-102.c Service Assessment Review Skill 6.2. Development of operational adjustments based on partner feedback in preparation for future high impact events. Implement best practices and adhere to user requirements when composing and disseminating products and services. IC Title: IS 130 Exercise Evaluation and Improvement Planning Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-130 Apply best practices and lessons learned from past events Skill 6.3. Perform internal and attend multi-agency training exercises focused on agency roles and decision thresholds during the various stages of a high impact event. IC Title: IS 120.C An Introduction to Exercises Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-120.c IC Title: IS 130 Exercise Evaluation and Improvement Planning Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-130 IC Title: IS-0139.a Exercise Design and Development Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-139.a IC Title: FEMA IS-2200 Basic Emergency Operations Center Functions Type: Informal Training (not in LMS) URL/location: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-2200