STORM2K

Ugh ... I cannot believe I am having to ask this question ... but want to make sure I understand something:

When we look at a model map that reads "valid 0z" ... does that mean the model map is depicting the weather it thinks will exist at 6 p.m. Eastern time?

That's 8pm EDT, actually, but yes, the "valid at" time is the time that the forecast on the map is expected to verify.