Water Whys: A student let program to create science explainers for broadcast meteorologists

Water Whys is a University of Arizona program focused on developing scientifically accurate and easy-to-understand graphical answers to water related questions. Our goal is to create succinct visual explanations that can help the public better understand current events. For example, why is flooding more likely after a fire? Or, how is the snowpack in Colorado connected to farmers in Arizona? Students work collaboratively with faculty in hydrology, and journalism as well as a former broadcast meteorologist to learn what it takes to make scientifically accurate, visually effective and accessible communication graphics geared toward a diverse and multi-lingual public. Broadcast meteorologists and other journalists act as ‘clients’ helping define the topics they would like to explain to the public. Our goal is to create graphics that the clients will use directly on air, in social media, and/or in print publications. We create and share high-resolution animation designed specifically for use during television weather forecasts. This talk will cover the products we have created so far as well as information on how you can get engaged with our group. We would love to hear from you with potential questions and are always happy to see the graphics we create get used on air.