WEATHER CLIMATE WATER

Why the world needs meteorologists

WMO-No. 1199

The right of publication in print, electronic and any other form and in any language is reserved by WMO. Short extracts from WMO publications may be reproduced without authorization, provided that the complete source is clearly indicated. Editorial correspondence and requests to publish, reproduce or translate this publication in part or in whole should be addressed to:

Chairperson, Publications BoardWorld Meteorological Organization (WMO)7 bis, avenue de la Paix Tel.: +41 (0) 22 730 84 03P.O. Box 2300 Fax: +41 (0) 22 730 81 17CH-1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland E-mail: publications@wmo.int

ISBN 978-92-63-11199-9

NOTE

The designations employed in WMO publications and the presentation of material in this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of WMO concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

The mention of specific companies or products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by WMO in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised.

The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in WMO publications with named authors are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect those of WMO or its Members.

© World Meteorological Organization, 2017

1

What should I wear? When should I plant my crops?

What policies do we need for adapting to the impacts of climate change?

From our most mundane decisions to some of humanity’s biggest challenges,

almost all of our activities are influenced by weather, climate and water.

2

Since ancient times, nearly every

culture on Earth has studied

weather and the changing seasons.

Today, advances in science and

technology allow us to gather detailed

observations using a host of modern

measuring instruments. Some of

the most powerful computers in the

world are used to run sophisticated

models of how the Earth’s atmosphere

interacts with the ocean, the land

and the water cycle to produce our

weather and climate.

3Translating all of these results

into meaningful information

requires a large number

of skilled and well-trained

meteorologists and hydrologists

working around the world,

and around the clock.

4

Thanks to the dedication of these passionate

individuals, policymakers have access to

high-quality forecasts and advice that they

can integrate into national planning and

decision-making.

5

Information supplied by meteorological experts is also valuable for key sectors

of the economy, from shipping and air transport, which rely on forecasts to

maximize efficiency and reduce risks, to tourism and recreation, which depend

on weather forecasts to plan outdoor activities and keep people safe.

6

In the agricultural sector, meteorologists assist farmers to plan optimal timing for

planting and harvesting crops based on seasonal conditions.

7

They also provide crucial data and forecasts to aid energy and water

managers in protecting resources and infrastructure and boosting the

use of renewable energies.

8

Meteorologists are central to

national efforts to promote public

health and safety, from predicting

outbreaks of air- and waterborne

diseases, to issuing early warnings

when a dangerous storm or

flood threatens to harm people

and damage property. National

militaries also rely on forecasters to

protect their troops and equipment

and plan their strategies.

9

Perhaps the most recognizable face of meteorology is

the weather presenter. These professionals have both the

knowledge and credibility to engage and educate the public,

and they play a key role in alerting people to extreme weather

events. But most meteorologists and hydrologists are rarely

seen by the public. Working with sophisticated equipment,

they tackle complex issues such as

keeping aeroplanes safe, reducing

urban pollution, designing

climate change policies and

advising on matters of sustainable

development.

10

In today’s complex world, the range of knowledge

and skills required by meteorologists has grown

immensely. Not only do they need to keep up

with advancing science and relevant technologies,

but some also need highly specialized knowledge,

such as how to translate raw data into maps

and charts for specialized uses. More and more,

meteorologists need to be able to communicate the

potential impact of weather, climate and water hazards in

the most timely manner possible to a diversity of users.

11

Meteorologists and hydrologists work for a great variety of employers – from

national weather services and research institutes, to private companies, airports,

police agencies and more. This requires that they also have a full understanding

of the specific sector they are serving.

12

There is no doubt that the need for well-

trained and highly skilled meteorologists

and hydrologists is more crucial than ever

before. To engage men and women across

the globe seeking an exciting and fulfilling

career in these fields, governments need

to invest in more degree programmes, more training in specialized skills, and

continuing professional education programmes.

13

The World Meteorological Organization is well equipped to support these needs

through its vast network of some 60 development partners, national institutions

and Regional Training Centres. Together, these ensure relevant training for

thousands of professionals every year, especially in developing countries where

such individuals are in high demand.

14

As our world continues on its path of rapid change

and growing complexity, the meteorologists,

climate scientists, hydrologists, forecasters and

weather broadcasters of tomorrow will play an

increasingly important role in efforts to drive

socioeconomic development and promote human

welfare around the globe.

15

WMO

Agriculture

Water resource management

Energy

Pollution control

Shipping

TransportWeather and climate monitoring

Scientific development

Development policy

International cooperation

Environmental protection

Aviation

Recreation and tourism

Public health and safety

World Meteorological Organization public.wmo.int @WMO16

For more information, please contact:

World Meteorological Organization7 bis, avenue de la Paix – P.O. Box 2300 – CH 1211 Geneva 2 – Switzerland

Communication and Public Affairs Office

Tel.: +41 (0) 22 730 83 14/15 – Fax: +41 (0) 22 730 80 27

E-mail: cpa@wmo.int

public.wmo.int JN 1

7118

4