Meteorologists observe and forecast the weather, and make predictions about the future climate.
Producing weather bulletins to help the general public is just part of meteorologists’ work. They also supply more specific forecasts to guide their clients in fields such as aviation, shipping, farming and the armed forces.
On a wider scale, their work helps to predict extreme weather and natural disasters, and so reduce their impact.
There are two broad areas of work within meteorology: forecasting and research.
A forecaster’s work may involve:
- collecting data on air pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind speed and direction
- interpreting the findings to produce weather forecasts
- supplying forecasts in different formats and using a variety of media, to suit the needs of specific clients.
Increasingly, automatic weather stations are being installed for data sampling. Unlike traditional instruments, these do not require observers to read them. However, meteorologists still carry out observations and research in person at sites around the world.
Forecasters produce material for many different audiences, including:
- the general public, to update them regularly on TV and radio, the internet and in newspapers
- farmers and foresters, to help them choose the best times for sowing, planting and harvesting
- energy suppliers, to help them anticipate and meet the changing demand for gas and electricity
- the sports community, to help them to take into account how the weather may affect a particular event.
Meteorological researchers may:
- study air flow, clouds and precipitation, and climate change
- develop mathematical representations to help predict atmospheric processes
- monitor and predict climate change, pollution, ozone depletion and their effects on the global environment
- present their findings to colleagues, governments and policy makers.
Meteorologists work closely with scientists in other disciplines, especially the related fields of hydrology and oceanography.
The role commonly involves use of specialised computer programs and complex mathematical techniques.
Hours and environment
Most forecasters work shifts. The pattern varies depending on the employer, but 12-hour shifts are common, covering days and nights. Since there is a year-round demand for forecasts, shifts will include some weekends and public holidays. Researchers are more likely to work normal office hours.
Meteorologists may be based in observation stations, or in their employers’ office headquarters. Some are posted to locations across the world – for example, to support the British Antarctic Survey. A few forecasters work at sea.
Interests
It is important to have:
- a genuine interest in weather and climate, and their impact on people and the environment
- a readiness to work in different, sometimes remote locations and outside normal office hours.
Getting in
One of the main employers is the Met Eireann, Ireland’s national meteorological service. A recognised Honours University degree in Meteorology or Physics or Mathematical Physics or Mathematics . A Masters course in Meteorology is available at the UCD Meteorology & Climate Centre. Met Éireann provides metrological training for new entrants. A six months training period is spent in the British Met Office and Met Éireann will support staff who wish to increase their qualifications.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Salaries for trainee forecasters start from around €25,000.
- With experience, earnings can rise to around €35,000.
- Meteorologists with management responsibilities may earn €70,000 or more.
Useful Links:
The Irish Meteorological Service
Irish Meteorological Society
The National Meteorological Service for The UK.
World Meteorological Society