FAU’s Sensing Institute is a vital contributor to the nation’s weather forecasting capabilities through its leadership of the Southeast Atlantic Econet. This network of atmospheric and hydrological monitoring stations delivers real-time data used by the National Weather Service, the South Florida Water Management District, the National Park Service, and local, state, and federal entities.

The institute manages the Florida subnetwork of 160 atmospheric and more than 30 water-level stations across 32 counties and is working to expand its network to 445 stations over the next five years. “Every forecast that helps a family seek shelter, every alert that gives emergency crews time to mobilize – it all begins with accurate, real-time data from the ground,” says Jason Hallstrom.

• Jason Hallstrom