University of Rhode Island Professor of Oceanography Isaac Ginis is a leading figure in predicting the power and intensity of hurricanes. Ginis has been researching their complex powers for over 30 years using computer-based models, with his studies resulting in improvements in hurricane forecasts and providing perspective on the hazards and impacts that arise from hurricanes.
One project Ginis is currently leading, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is developing hurricane scenarios for Rhode Island to capture accurate representation of hurricane hazards and impacts, and will serve to better emergency preparedness in the state.
Block Island Times reporter Rosemary Connelli spoke to Ginis about his studies.
Q: Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and how you became involved in the study of hurricanes?
A: I’m a Professor of Oceanography at the Graduate School of Oceanography at URI. I have been at URI for 27 years, and I have been focusing my research on hurricanes for a long time, more than 30 years. I do computer modeling of hurricanes, which is essentially using computer models to predict hurricanes and their intensity. In particular, I have been focusing on the physical processes in hurricanes to
