(L - R) - WFO Huntsville Meteorologists Dana Griffin, Jennifer Schuller, David Nadler and student volunteer intern Ashley Ravenscraft (Photo: WFO Huntsville)
(Oct. 31, 2012) - On a cold and blustery late October day in southern middle Tennessee, nearly 90 international and domestic competitive barbecue teams battled it out for the coveted title of Grand Champion.
In what competitors and fans consider the world's most prestigious barbecue competition, the BBQ battle was on in the 24th Annual Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue in Lynchburg, Tenn.
Working with the Moore County Emergency Management Agency, Huntsville staffers offered continuous on-site weather support throughout the day. They provided real-time weather information, NOAA weather radio demonstrations and additional information on various severe weather hazards, safety and preparedness.
"Though significant weather hazards were not expected during the competition, gusty winds up to 25 mph. had been forecast in advance of the event so workers and safety officers could properly secure tents and other free-standing equipment to maximize public safety," said Warning Coordination Meteorologist David Nadler.
"This critical wind information was relayed to Moore County emergency managers a couple of days prior to the actual competition."
The Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue is held at the historic Lynchburg Tennessee distillery. Each year, hundreds of teams in the United States to earn a place in the competition along with a limited number of international teams who are also invited to compete.
An estimated 25,000 people from around the world turned out for the 2012 competition on Saturday, Oct. 27.
