October 24, 2026 · Greater Boston Area
Blue Hill Observatory Climate and Weather Conference
Formerly the Southern New England Weather Conference
For more than 25 years, the Blue Hill Observatory Climate and Weather Conference — formerly the Southern New England Weather Conference — has brought together weather enthusiasts, professionals, students, and teachers to share knowledge and expertise on regional weather and climate. Whether you are a seasoned meteorologist or a curious newcomer, the conference delivers content that directly affects New Englanders’ daily lives — from winter storm forecasting and hurricane impacts to long-term climate trends and emergency preparedness.
Registration for the 2026 conference is now open. Early bird pricing runs now through August 31. This year’s conference is hybrid, with both in-person and virtual attendance options.
Register Now
What to Expect
- Keynote presentations from leading meteorologists
- Sessions on winter forecasting and extreme weather
- Climate research and long-term trend analysis
- Poster session showcasing original research
- Networking with regional weather professionals
- Emergency preparedness and public safety topics
- Climate and atmospheric research and data on other planetary bodies
Who Should Attend
- Professional meteorologists and forecasters
- Emergency management professionals
- Educators and students
- Weather enthusiasts and hobbyists
- Researchers and climate scientists
- Media and broadcast meteorologists
About the Blue Hill Observatory Climate and Weather Conference
The Blue Hill Observatory Climate and Weather Conference represents the continuation and evolution of the long-standing Southern New England Weather Conference.
As Blue Hill Observatory steps into a leading role in organizing and hosting the Conference, we do so with deep appreciation for the many years of stewardship, partnership, and logistical support that have sustained this convening. That legacy has built a strong and enduring community, and it will not be forgotten.
The updated name reflects both continuity and a broader vision. While the Conference remains rooted in the strong regional community that defined it for many years, it is now intended to serve as a national forum — bringing together leaders in meteorology, climate science, resilience, and communication from across the country.
By placing Blue Hill Observatory at the forefront, the Conference is grounded in one of the nation’s most significant weather and climate records, connecting more than 140 years of observation to the challenges ahead.
This next chapter ensures that the Conference not only continues, but grows in reach, relevance, and national significance.
Register
Registration for the 2026 conference is open. This year’s conference is hybrid — both in-person and virtual registration options are available.
Earlybird — Now thru August 31
- Student — $60
- Regular — $95
- Virtual — $95
Regular — Starting September 1
- Student — $105
- Regular — $150
- Virtual — $105
Ready to register? Secure your spot for October 24, 2026 today.
Register NowQuestions about registration? Contact us.
Agenda
Keynote Speaker
Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd
Keynote Speaker
Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd is the Georgia Athletic Association Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Georgia and Director of its Atmospheric Sciences Program. He is a past President of the American Meteorological Society, hosts The Weather Channel’s Weather Geeks, and is a widely followed voice on weather, climate, and their impact on society, contributing regularly to outlets including Forbes and CNN.
Master of Ceremonies
Kristina Shalhoup
Master of Ceremonies
Kristina Shalhoup is excited to return to Massachusetts as a 7NEWS weekend meteorologist.
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 7:45 – 8:30 AM | Registration |
| 8:30 – 10:45 AM | Breakout Sessions |
| 10:45 – 12:15 PM | Keynote Address — Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd |
| 12:15 – 2:00 PM | Lunch (off site) |
| 2:00 – 3:30 PM | Panels & Breakout Sessions |
| 3:30 – 4:00 PM | Winter Forecast |
| 4:00 – 4:15 PM | Thank You & Closing |
| 4:45 – 7:00 PM | Poster Session @ Blue Hill Observatory |
The full session-by-session agenda will be posted here as the event approaches. Past conference agendas are available in the archive.
Presenters
Interested in presenting at the 2026 conference? Abstract submissions are now open and close September 8, 2026. Only registered attendees will have their abstracts reviewed, so please register before submitting. Notifications will go out no later than September 22, 2026.
Submit your abstract by September 8. Registration is required for review.
Submit AbstractThe poster session accepts up to ten submissions. More details will be posted here as the event approaches.
Committee
Organizing Committee
- Alex Evans — Blue Hill Observatory
- Cheryl Cummings — Blue Hill Observatory
- Sam Collins — Meteorologist, The Weather Company
- Blair Talcott
- Bob Chen — UMass Boston
- Sean Ernst
- Matt Douglas
- Joseph Barrett
Media Advisory Board
- Kevin Lemanowicz — Chair
- Tucker Antico — Boston25
- Cindy Fitzgibbon — WCVB 5
- Eric Fisher — WBZ 4 CBS
- Jeremy Reiner — WHDH 7 Independent
- Pete Bouchard — WBTS 10 NBC
- Shiri Spear — Boston25
- Hayley Lapointe — WMUR Manchester NH
Sponsorship
The Blue Hill Observatory Climate and Weather Conference is a non-profit event organized and hosted annually by the Blue Hill Observatory and Science Center.
Support our mission by sponsoring the 2026 conference. Our 2026 sponsorship brochure is coming soon with more information on levels and benefits.