Communicating Probability Information in Weather Forecasts: Findings and Recommendations from a Living Systematic Review of the Research Literature

Abstract

Abstract Probabilistic forecast information is rapidly spreading in the weather enterprise. Many scientists agree that this is a positive development, but incorporating probability information into risk communication can be challenging because communicators have little guidance about the most effective way to present it. This project endeavors to create such guidance by initiating a “living systematic review” of research studies that empirically examine the impact of risk messages that use probability information on protective action decision-making, intentions, and behaviors. In this article, we explain how we began the review, map the current state of the literature, synthesize core findings, provide actionable recommendations to assist forecasters in risk communication, and introduce an online platform that scholars and forecasters can use to interact with the data from the review. We conclude with two key points from the review that necessitate emphasis: the research literature strongly suggests that 1) average people can make sense of and use probability information if consideration is given to information presentation and 2) assuming appropriate presentation, probability information generally improves decision quality. Significance Statement Probability information is increasingly common in weather forecasts, but forecasters have relatively little guidance on the most effective way to communicate this information to members of the public. This project synthesizes the research literature to provide actionable recommendations to assist forecasters who are working to include probability information in risk communication messages.