1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:01,640 Welcome back everybody, we're celebrating 2 00:00:01,640 --> 00:00:04,280 National Weather Persons Day today. 3 00:00:04,280 --> 00:00:06,160 A day to recognize all the people 4 00:00:06,160 --> 00:00:08,400 who keep us informed about the weather. 5 00:00:08,400 --> 00:00:10,880 And let's be honest, who hasn't been glued to the forecast 6 00:00:10,880 --> 00:00:11,880 when a big storm's coming. 7 00:00:11,880 --> 00:00:13,600 Right, something that affects us all. 8 00:00:13,600 --> 00:00:16,000 And you know what's interesting is that this day 9 00:00:16,000 --> 00:00:18,920 actually commemorates the birth of John Jeffries. 10 00:00:18,920 --> 00:00:21,520 Way back in 1744, he was a doctor, 11 00:00:21,520 --> 00:00:24,760 but also a pioneer in weather observation here in America. 12 00:00:24,760 --> 00:00:27,720 So John Jeffries, okay, I know that he was very meticulous 13 00:00:27,720 --> 00:00:29,440 in keeping weather records. 14 00:00:29,440 --> 00:00:31,400 But what makes him so important 15 00:00:31,400 --> 00:00:33,400 in the history of meteorology? 16 00:00:33,400 --> 00:00:35,440 Well, think about it, this is the 1700s. 17 00:00:35,440 --> 00:00:37,920 Long before all of our modern technology, 18 00:00:37,920 --> 00:00:41,120 Jeffries was making these detailed observations in Boston 19 00:00:41,120 --> 00:00:43,640 and get this, he even took weather instruments 20 00:00:43,640 --> 00:00:46,360 up in a hot air balloon over London. 21 00:00:46,360 --> 00:00:47,440 Talk about dedication. 22 00:00:47,440 --> 00:00:49,520 Wow, hot air balloon, that's incredible. 23 00:00:49,520 --> 00:00:50,720 He really was a pioneer. 24 00:00:50,720 --> 00:00:51,560 Yeah. 25 00:00:51,560 --> 00:00:53,520 It's amazing to think how far we've come since then. 26 00:00:53,520 --> 00:00:56,400 Yeah, from those early observations 27 00:00:56,400 --> 00:00:59,640 to the sophisticated forecasting models that we have today 28 00:00:59,640 --> 00:01:01,040 has been quite the journey. 29 00:01:01,040 --> 00:01:03,200 And speaking of modern meteorology, 30 00:01:03,200 --> 00:01:05,640 I think most people, when they think of a meteorologist, 31 00:01:05,640 --> 00:01:07,880 they think of the TV weathercaster. 32 00:01:07,880 --> 00:01:10,280 But that's really just the tip of the iceberg. 33 00:01:10,280 --> 00:01:12,280 Yeah, there's a whole world of weather experts 34 00:01:12,280 --> 00:01:13,160 behind the scenes. 35 00:01:13,160 --> 00:01:16,200 And I've heard that the National Weather Service 36 00:01:16,200 --> 00:01:19,160 is actually a major employer of meteorologists. 37 00:01:19,160 --> 00:01:21,840 Oh, absolutely, the NWS is like the backbone 38 00:01:21,840 --> 00:01:23,840 of weather forecasting here in the US. 39 00:01:23,840 --> 00:01:25,160 They're the ones responsible 40 00:01:25,160 --> 00:01:27,520 for issuing those severe weather warnings 41 00:01:27,520 --> 00:01:30,120 that help protect life and property. 42 00:01:30,120 --> 00:01:31,600 And it's a huge operation. 43 00:01:31,600 --> 00:01:34,440 There are over 300, 600 meteorologists 44 00:01:34,440 --> 00:01:38,000 working across 122 local offices nationwide. 45 00:01:38,000 --> 00:01:40,440 Wow, 122 offices, that's incredible. 46 00:01:40,440 --> 00:01:43,600 So it's not just about predicting if we need an umbrella, 47 00:01:43,600 --> 00:01:45,000 their work has real consequences. 48 00:01:45,000 --> 00:01:47,680 Exactly, I mean, think about the impact of a hurricane 49 00:01:47,680 --> 00:01:48,840 or a tornado. 50 00:01:48,840 --> 00:01:50,320 The National Weather Service provides 51 00:01:50,320 --> 00:01:53,280 that critical information that helps communities prepare 52 00:01:53,280 --> 00:01:54,800 and respond to these events. 53 00:01:54,800 --> 00:01:56,120 It's a huge responsibility. 54 00:01:56,120 --> 00:01:57,640 And it's 24-7, right? 55 00:01:57,640 --> 00:02:00,160 Weather doesn't take a break for holidays or anything. 56 00:02:00,160 --> 00:02:01,000 You got it. 57 00:02:01,000 --> 00:02:04,480 The NWS operates around the clock 365 days a year. 58 00:02:04,480 --> 00:02:07,200 They have teams in those local offices we talked about. 59 00:02:07,200 --> 00:02:09,000 They have regional headquarters 60 00:02:09,000 --> 00:02:10,800 and even specialized national centers 61 00:02:10,800 --> 00:02:13,800 all working together to monitor weather patterns 62 00:02:13,800 --> 00:02:16,240 and issue forecasts and warnings. 63 00:02:16,240 --> 00:02:17,840 Okay, so let's dive a little bit deeper 64 00:02:17,840 --> 00:02:19,400 into these national centers. 65 00:02:19,400 --> 00:02:21,200 So I'm kind of curious about what each one does. 66 00:02:21,200 --> 00:02:23,840 I know there's the Storm Prediction Center, 67 00:02:23,840 --> 00:02:25,840 which I think focuses on tornadoes. 68 00:02:25,840 --> 00:02:26,880 Yeah, you're right on the mark. 69 00:02:26,880 --> 00:02:28,520 The Storm Prediction Center is in Oklahoma. 70 00:02:28,520 --> 00:02:30,600 And they're really the nerve center 71 00:02:30,600 --> 00:02:33,440 for tornado and severe thunderstorm forecasting. 72 00:02:33,440 --> 00:02:35,920 They issue those watches and warnings 73 00:02:35,920 --> 00:02:38,400 that give people time to take cover. 74 00:02:38,400 --> 00:02:39,920 That's so important. 75 00:02:39,920 --> 00:02:42,480 Especially for people living in tornado-prone areas. 76 00:02:42,480 --> 00:02:43,400 And what about hurricanes? 77 00:02:43,400 --> 00:02:44,760 Isn't their A-center dedicated 78 00:02:44,760 --> 00:02:45,960 to tracking those as well? 79 00:02:45,960 --> 00:02:48,600 Absolutely, the National Hurricane Center down in Miami 80 00:02:48,600 --> 00:02:50,400 is responsible for tracking 81 00:02:50,400 --> 00:02:52,520 and forecasting those powerful storms. 82 00:02:52,520 --> 00:02:56,320 They use sophisticated models and data from hurricane hunters 83 00:02:56,320 --> 00:02:59,000 to try to predict the path and the intensity of a hurricane. 84 00:02:59,000 --> 00:03:01,120 But we've got tornadoes, we've got hurricanes. 85 00:03:01,120 --> 00:03:04,280 What other specialized centers are there within the NWS? 86 00:03:04,280 --> 00:03:06,840 Well, there's the Aviation Weather Center, 87 00:03:06,840 --> 00:03:09,520 which focuses on providing forecasts for pilots 88 00:03:09,520 --> 00:03:11,120 and the aviation industry. 89 00:03:11,120 --> 00:03:13,720 There's the Climate Prediction Center, 90 00:03:13,720 --> 00:03:16,400 which looks at long-range climate trends 91 00:03:16,400 --> 00:03:18,720 and issues seasonal outlooks. 92 00:03:18,720 --> 00:03:19,840 And of course, we can't forget 93 00:03:19,840 --> 00:03:22,800 the Hydro Meteorological Prediction Center, 94 00:03:22,800 --> 00:03:24,480 which focuses on heavy rainfall, 95 00:03:24,480 --> 00:03:26,320 flooding, and winter weather. 96 00:03:26,320 --> 00:03:29,120 So each center really plays a critical role 97 00:03:29,120 --> 00:03:31,000 in keeping the nation informed 98 00:03:31,000 --> 00:03:33,880 and prepared for a wide range of weather events. 99 00:03:33,880 --> 00:03:35,480 It's truly an interconnected system. 100 00:03:35,480 --> 00:03:36,920 It's like a well-oiled machine 101 00:03:36,920 --> 00:03:38,880 with all these different parts working together. 102 00:03:38,880 --> 00:03:39,760 It's pretty impressive. 103 00:03:39,760 --> 00:03:40,600 It really is. 104 00:03:40,600 --> 00:03:42,360 And you know, one more thing to think about. 105 00:03:42,360 --> 00:03:44,920 The NWS is constantly pushing the boundaries 106 00:03:44,920 --> 00:03:46,400 of our understanding of weather. 107 00:03:46,400 --> 00:03:48,200 They have these research laboratories, 108 00:03:48,200 --> 00:03:50,520 like the National Severe Storms Laboratory, 109 00:03:50,520 --> 00:03:53,000 that are dedicated to improving forecasting techniques 110 00:03:53,000 --> 00:03:54,560 and developing new technologies. 111 00:03:54,560 --> 00:03:57,040 So it's not just about issuing forecasts. 112 00:03:57,040 --> 00:03:59,040 It's about pushing the science forward 113 00:03:59,040 --> 00:04:01,120 and finding new ways to keep people safe. 114 00:04:01,120 --> 00:04:05,360 I'm starting to realize that a career in meteorology 115 00:04:05,360 --> 00:04:07,920 is a lot more diverse than I initially thought. 116 00:04:07,920 --> 00:04:08,880 You're absolutely right. 117 00:04:08,880 --> 00:04:12,000 And that actually brings us to an interesting point. 118 00:04:12,000 --> 00:04:14,920 While the NWS is a major player, 119 00:04:14,920 --> 00:04:17,240 it's not the only place you'll find meteorologists. 120 00:04:17,240 --> 00:04:19,520 Oh, absolutely. There are so many other places. 121 00:04:19,520 --> 00:04:22,400 So if we're looking beyond the National Weather Service then, 122 00:04:22,400 --> 00:04:24,160 where else are meteorologists needed? 123 00:04:24,160 --> 00:04:26,160 Well, the military comes to mind right away. 124 00:04:26,160 --> 00:04:28,320 The Air Force and the Navy especially 125 00:04:28,320 --> 00:04:30,560 rely very heavily on meteorologists. 126 00:04:30,560 --> 00:04:31,640 Yeah, that makes sense. 127 00:04:31,640 --> 00:04:34,040 Planning missions, keeping troops safe. 128 00:04:34,040 --> 00:04:36,880 It all depends on knowing what the weather's gonna do, 129 00:04:36,880 --> 00:04:38,840 whether you're here in the US or overseas. 130 00:04:38,840 --> 00:04:39,840 Precisely. 131 00:04:39,840 --> 00:04:41,760 And then there's also this huge growth 132 00:04:41,760 --> 00:04:43,600 that we're seeing in the private sector. 133 00:04:43,600 --> 00:04:46,000 Any industry that's affected by the weather, 134 00:04:46,000 --> 00:04:48,960 which, let's be honest, is almost every industry. 135 00:04:48,960 --> 00:04:51,200 They need people who can analyze the risk 136 00:04:51,200 --> 00:04:53,560 and make smart decisions based on forecasts. 137 00:04:53,560 --> 00:04:55,200 So can you give us some specific examples? 138 00:04:55,200 --> 00:04:57,040 What kind of jobs are we talking about here? 139 00:04:57,040 --> 00:05:00,320 Well, you've got hospitals that need to prepare for a hurricane, 140 00:05:00,320 --> 00:05:02,760 or insurance companies that need to assess damage 141 00:05:02,760 --> 00:05:04,680 after a big hailstorm. 142 00:05:04,680 --> 00:05:08,040 Construction companies need to know about wind loads. 143 00:05:08,040 --> 00:05:09,880 On buildings, they're constructing. 144 00:05:09,880 --> 00:05:13,960 Even lawyers sometimes need expert testimony in court cases 145 00:05:13,960 --> 00:05:15,400 when the weather's a factor. 146 00:05:15,400 --> 00:05:17,760 Wow, I'd even considered the legal aspect of it. 147 00:05:17,760 --> 00:05:19,600 So for anyone listening who might be thinking 148 00:05:19,600 --> 00:05:22,960 about a career in meteorology, 149 00:05:22,960 --> 00:05:25,120 it sounds like the possibilities are really diverse. 150 00:05:25,120 --> 00:05:25,960 Absolutely. 151 00:05:25,960 --> 00:05:27,680 But you know, it's also important to think about 152 00:05:27,680 --> 00:05:29,640 the people behind the forecasts. 153 00:05:29,640 --> 00:05:30,480 Yeah. 154 00:05:30,480 --> 00:05:31,320 And look at the demographics 155 00:05:31,320 --> 00:05:32,640 of the meteorology field as well. 156 00:05:32,640 --> 00:05:34,360 Okay, so what can you tell us about that? 157 00:05:34,360 --> 00:05:37,240 Are there any trends or statistics that stand out to you? 158 00:05:37,240 --> 00:05:39,480 Well, if we go back to those TV meteorologists 159 00:05:39,480 --> 00:05:40,880 that we were talking about earlier, 160 00:05:40,880 --> 00:05:42,720 it might surprise you to know 161 00:05:42,720 --> 00:05:44,920 that only about 24% of them are women. 162 00:05:44,920 --> 00:05:46,400 That is kind of surprising. 163 00:05:46,400 --> 00:05:49,000 It seems like a field that would appeal to anyone, 164 00:05:49,000 --> 00:05:50,320 regardless of their gender. 165 00:05:50,320 --> 00:05:51,160 You would think so. 166 00:05:51,160 --> 00:05:53,760 And you know, it was even lower back in 2011, 167 00:05:53,760 --> 00:05:55,800 only around 17.6%. 168 00:05:55,800 --> 00:05:58,040 So things are moving in the right direction, 169 00:05:58,040 --> 00:06:00,040 but there's definitely still a long way to go. 170 00:06:00,040 --> 00:06:00,880 Absolutely. 171 00:06:00,880 --> 00:06:03,280 What about racial diversity within the field? 172 00:06:03,280 --> 00:06:04,600 It's a similar story there. 173 00:06:04,600 --> 00:06:07,280 The majority of broadcast meteorologists 174 00:06:07,280 --> 00:06:10,080 are white around 76%, 175 00:06:10,080 --> 00:06:14,120 but we are seeing a gradual increase in representation 176 00:06:14,120 --> 00:06:15,800 from other racial groups as well, 177 00:06:15,800 --> 00:06:19,320 black or African-American meteorologists in particular. 178 00:06:19,320 --> 00:06:20,720 So while there's still work to be done 179 00:06:20,720 --> 00:06:25,120 to make the field truly representative of the population, 180 00:06:25,120 --> 00:06:26,120 it is encouraging to see 181 00:06:26,120 --> 00:06:27,960 that at least some progress is being made. 182 00:06:27,960 --> 00:06:28,800 Definitely. 183 00:06:28,800 --> 00:06:30,240 And here's another interesting fact. 184 00:06:30,240 --> 00:06:33,400 The average age of a broadcast meteorologist 185 00:06:33,400 --> 00:06:35,040 is nearly 50 years old. 186 00:06:35,040 --> 00:06:37,720 So that kind of suggests that it takes time 187 00:06:37,720 --> 00:06:39,920 to really build up that expertise in the field. 188 00:06:39,920 --> 00:06:40,760 Yeah, that makes sense. 189 00:06:40,760 --> 00:06:43,280 Dealing with something as complex as the weather 190 00:06:43,280 --> 00:06:44,880 probably requires a lot of experience. 191 00:06:44,880 --> 00:06:47,600 So let's talk about how someone even gets into this field. 192 00:06:47,600 --> 00:06:49,040 What's the education path look like 193 00:06:49,040 --> 00:06:50,880 for an aspiring meteorologist? 194 00:06:50,880 --> 00:06:53,760 Well, the foundation is really a four-year bachelor's degree 195 00:06:53,760 --> 00:06:56,360 in meteorology or atmospheric science. 196 00:06:56,360 --> 00:06:57,600 It's pretty much standard. 197 00:06:57,600 --> 00:06:59,280 Almost all meteorologists have at least 198 00:06:59,280 --> 00:07:00,400 that level of education. 199 00:07:00,400 --> 00:07:02,200 Okay, so that's the starting point. 200 00:07:02,200 --> 00:07:04,240 But what about people who want to specialize 201 00:07:04,240 --> 00:07:05,720 or maybe go into research? 202 00:07:05,720 --> 00:07:08,120 That's where the more advanced degrees come in. 203 00:07:08,120 --> 00:07:11,760 Master's degrees and PhDs are becoming increasingly common, 204 00:07:11,760 --> 00:07:14,280 especially for those who are interested in things like 205 00:07:14,280 --> 00:07:16,720 climate modeling or severe weather research. 206 00:07:16,720 --> 00:07:17,720 Makes sense. 207 00:07:17,720 --> 00:07:21,040 More education often leads to more specialized roles 208 00:07:21,040 --> 00:07:23,280 and probably higher paying roles as well. 209 00:07:23,280 --> 00:07:25,320 Speaking of which, what kind of salary 210 00:07:25,320 --> 00:07:28,200 can someone expect in the meteorology field? 211 00:07:28,200 --> 00:07:31,560 Well, the average salary for atmospheric and space scientists, 212 00:07:31,560 --> 00:07:33,760 which includes all those different types of meteorologists 213 00:07:33,760 --> 00:07:34,840 we've been talking about, 214 00:07:34,840 --> 00:07:38,520 is around $101,530 per year. 215 00:07:38,520 --> 00:07:39,520 Okay, not bad. 216 00:07:39,520 --> 00:07:41,080 But I imagine there's a lot of variation 217 00:07:41,080 --> 00:07:44,080 depending on experience location and the specific job. 218 00:07:44,080 --> 00:07:44,920 You're exactly right. 219 00:07:44,920 --> 00:07:49,680 The top 10% in the field can earn over $157,250 annually. 220 00:07:49,680 --> 00:07:52,320 And of course, things like working in a major city 221 00:07:52,320 --> 00:07:54,960 or for a private company versus a government agency. 222 00:07:54,960 --> 00:07:57,760 All those things can influence your earning potential. 223 00:07:57,760 --> 00:07:59,040 So it sounds like there's a lot of room 224 00:07:59,040 --> 00:08:00,360 for growth in advancing. 225 00:08:00,360 --> 00:08:01,800 And it's not just about the money either. 226 00:08:01,800 --> 00:08:06,440 There's that satisfaction of contributing to public safety, 227 00:08:06,440 --> 00:08:08,320 understanding our atmosphere, 228 00:08:08,320 --> 00:08:11,400 and maybe even becoming a familiar face on the evening news. 229 00:08:11,400 --> 00:08:12,240 Exactly. 230 00:08:12,240 --> 00:08:13,520 There's a certain thrill that comes 231 00:08:13,520 --> 00:08:15,240 with being a meteorologist, 232 00:08:15,240 --> 00:08:18,560 knowing that your work has this direct impact 233 00:08:18,560 --> 00:08:19,960 on people's lives. 234 00:08:19,960 --> 00:08:22,240 It's a field that combines science, technology, 235 00:08:22,240 --> 00:08:24,120 and communication. 236 00:08:24,120 --> 00:08:26,240 And there's a lot of opportunity out there 237 00:08:26,240 --> 00:08:28,400 for folks who are really passionate about weather. 238 00:08:28,400 --> 00:08:30,440 I think a lot of our listeners today 239 00:08:30,440 --> 00:08:32,520 are probably realizing that there's a lot more 240 00:08:32,520 --> 00:08:35,560 to meteorology than they initially thought. 241 00:08:35,560 --> 00:08:36,400 Definitely. 242 00:08:36,400 --> 00:08:38,880 Even within a specific job, like let's say, 243 00:08:38,880 --> 00:08:40,760 working at the National Hurricane Center, 244 00:08:40,760 --> 00:08:44,320 there are still so many different roles and specializations. 245 00:08:44,320 --> 00:08:45,520 That's a great point. 246 00:08:45,520 --> 00:08:46,960 So what does that journey look like? 247 00:08:46,960 --> 00:08:49,960 How does someone actually end up working in a place 248 00:08:49,960 --> 00:08:51,480 like the National Hurricane Center? 249 00:08:51,480 --> 00:08:53,760 Well, it often starts with a spark of interest. 250 00:08:53,760 --> 00:08:56,720 Maybe as a kid, you were fascinated by storms. 251 00:08:56,720 --> 00:08:57,560 Yeah. 252 00:08:57,560 --> 00:08:59,240 Or always checking the weather forecast. 253 00:08:59,240 --> 00:09:01,760 So you have that initial interest, and then what? 254 00:09:01,760 --> 00:09:04,360 Well, that interest usually translates into a focus 255 00:09:04,360 --> 00:09:06,440 on math and science in school. 256 00:09:06,440 --> 00:09:08,120 And then by the time you're in college, 257 00:09:08,120 --> 00:09:11,040 you're taking those core meteorology courses, 258 00:09:11,040 --> 00:09:12,760 calculus, physics, all that good stuff. 259 00:09:12,760 --> 00:09:15,320 So a solid academic foundation is key. 260 00:09:15,320 --> 00:09:16,120 Absolutely. 261 00:09:16,120 --> 00:09:19,720 And a lot of aspiring meteorologists 262 00:09:19,720 --> 00:09:23,440 also seek out internships or research opportunities 263 00:09:23,440 --> 00:09:25,160 while they're still in school. 264 00:09:25,160 --> 00:09:28,080 That hands-on experience is really invaluable. 265 00:09:28,080 --> 00:09:29,920 I bet those internships are pretty competitive. 266 00:09:29,920 --> 00:09:31,440 Oh, they can be, for sure. 267 00:09:31,440 --> 00:09:34,840 But the people who really thrive in this field 268 00:09:34,840 --> 00:09:38,520 are those who are driven by a genuine desire 269 00:09:38,520 --> 00:09:39,800 to learn and contribute. 270 00:09:39,800 --> 00:09:41,840 They're really passionate about weather 271 00:09:41,840 --> 00:09:43,920 and using that knowledge to make a difference. 272 00:09:43,920 --> 00:09:46,080 So you've got the education, you've got the experience, 273 00:09:46,080 --> 00:09:47,480 and you've got the passion. 274 00:09:47,480 --> 00:09:48,400 What's next? 275 00:09:48,400 --> 00:09:50,160 Well, then the job hunt begins. 276 00:09:50,160 --> 00:09:54,360 And as we've discussed, the NWS is obviously a major employer, 277 00:09:54,360 --> 00:09:55,920 but it's not the only option. 278 00:09:55,920 --> 00:09:56,120 Right. 279 00:09:56,120 --> 00:09:57,920 We talked about the military, the private sector, 280 00:09:57,920 --> 00:10:00,240 research labs, all these different avenues to explore. 281 00:10:00,240 --> 00:10:00,640 Exactly. 282 00:10:00,640 --> 00:10:03,680 So let's say you do land that dream job 283 00:10:03,680 --> 00:10:06,120 at the National Hurricane Center. 284 00:10:06,120 --> 00:10:08,120 What kind of work might you actually be doing? 285 00:10:08,120 --> 00:10:11,000 Yeah, give us a glimpse into the day-to-day life 286 00:10:11,000 --> 00:10:12,160 of a hurricane hunter. 287 00:10:12,160 --> 00:10:14,280 Well, first of all, it's important to know 288 00:10:14,280 --> 00:10:16,080 that not everyone at the Hurricane Center 289 00:10:16,080 --> 00:10:17,960 is flying into storms. 290 00:10:17,960 --> 00:10:19,720 There are all these other specialists 291 00:10:19,720 --> 00:10:22,560 who are focusing on different aspects of hurricane forecasting. 292 00:10:22,560 --> 00:10:24,600 So what are some of those specialized roles then? 293 00:10:24,600 --> 00:10:27,920 Well, you've got people analyzing satellite data. 294 00:10:27,920 --> 00:10:31,160 You've got people running those complex computer models. 295 00:10:31,160 --> 00:10:33,960 And then you have others who are focusing on communicating 296 00:10:33,960 --> 00:10:37,800 those forecasts to the public and to emergency management 297 00:10:37,800 --> 00:10:38,320 officials. 298 00:10:38,320 --> 00:10:39,840 So it really is a team effort, just 299 00:10:39,840 --> 00:10:41,600 like the National Weather Service as a whole. 300 00:10:41,600 --> 00:10:42,360 Exactly. 301 00:10:42,360 --> 00:10:45,800 And during hurricane season, things can get really intense. 302 00:10:45,800 --> 00:10:48,200 You know, you're working long hours under pressure, 303 00:10:48,200 --> 00:10:50,640 constantly monitoring that latest data, 304 00:10:50,640 --> 00:10:52,320 and making decisions that could really 305 00:10:52,320 --> 00:10:54,280 affect millions of lives. 306 00:10:54,280 --> 00:10:55,120 I can only imagine. 307 00:10:55,120 --> 00:10:58,800 It must be incredibly demanding, but also very rewarding 308 00:10:58,800 --> 00:11:01,200 to know that you're playing such a crucial role. 309 00:11:01,200 --> 00:11:01,680 It is. 310 00:11:01,680 --> 00:11:04,080 There's definitely an adrenaline rush that comes with it, 311 00:11:04,080 --> 00:11:07,760 tracking those powerful storms, and knowing that your work is 312 00:11:07,760 --> 00:11:09,560 helping keep people safe. 313 00:11:09,560 --> 00:11:10,680 I bet. 314 00:11:10,680 --> 00:11:13,920 And on that note, let's talk a little bit more 315 00:11:13,920 --> 00:11:16,880 about the communication aspect of meteorology, 316 00:11:16,880 --> 00:11:18,480 because it's not just about the science. 317 00:11:18,480 --> 00:11:20,440 It's about getting that information out 318 00:11:20,440 --> 00:11:21,560 to the people who need it. 319 00:11:21,560 --> 00:11:22,320 You're absolutely right. 320 00:11:22,320 --> 00:11:24,800 Effective communication is so crucial, 321 00:11:24,800 --> 00:11:27,680 especially when we're talking about hazardous weather. 322 00:11:27,680 --> 00:11:30,120 And this is where those TV weather casters we mentioned 323 00:11:30,120 --> 00:11:32,120 earlier really play an important role. 324 00:11:32,120 --> 00:11:34,680 They're often the face of meteorology 325 00:11:34,680 --> 00:11:35,640 for the general public. 326 00:11:35,640 --> 00:11:36,360 For sure. 327 00:11:36,360 --> 00:11:39,320 There are the ones explaining those complex weather patterns 328 00:11:39,320 --> 00:11:41,280 in a way that everyone can understand. 329 00:11:41,280 --> 00:11:43,640 And they're also the ones relaying those lifesaving 330 00:11:43,640 --> 00:11:45,680 warnings from the National Weather Service. 331 00:11:45,680 --> 00:11:46,200 Exactly. 332 00:11:46,200 --> 00:11:47,760 And it takes a special set of skills 333 00:11:47,760 --> 00:11:49,480 to be able to do that effectively. 334 00:11:49,480 --> 00:11:52,400 You have to be able to break down complex information, 335 00:11:52,400 --> 00:11:55,600 be comfortable on camera, and connect with your audience 336 00:11:55,600 --> 00:11:57,560 in a way that builds trust. 337 00:11:57,560 --> 00:11:58,440 Definitely. 338 00:11:58,440 --> 00:12:01,480 And we can't forget about social media these days. 339 00:12:01,480 --> 00:12:03,680 A lot of meteorologists are using platforms 340 00:12:03,680 --> 00:12:07,480 like Twitter, Instagram, even TikTok 341 00:12:07,480 --> 00:12:10,680 to share weather information and engage with the public. 342 00:12:10,680 --> 00:12:11,680 That's a great point. 343 00:12:11,680 --> 00:12:13,920 Social media has totally revolutionized the way 344 00:12:13,920 --> 00:12:15,520 we communicate about weather. 345 00:12:15,520 --> 00:12:18,520 It allows meteorologists to reach a much wider audience, 346 00:12:18,520 --> 00:12:22,120 share information quickly, and even 347 00:12:22,120 --> 00:12:24,040 dispel rumors and misinformation. 348 00:12:24,040 --> 00:12:26,160 Speaking of misinformation, it seems 349 00:12:26,160 --> 00:12:29,440 like we're constantly bombarded with conflicting weather 350 00:12:29,440 --> 00:12:32,440 information these days, especially online. 351 00:12:32,440 --> 00:12:36,400 So how can our listeners sort through all that noise 352 00:12:36,400 --> 00:12:38,360 and figure out who to trust? 353 00:12:38,360 --> 00:12:40,320 That's such an important question, especially 354 00:12:40,320 --> 00:12:42,520 in our information-saturated world. 355 00:12:42,520 --> 00:12:43,880 Here's a pro tip. 356 00:12:43,880 --> 00:12:46,800 Look for sources that are credible, transparent, 357 00:12:46,800 --> 00:12:48,400 and backed by scientific evidence. 358 00:12:48,400 --> 00:12:49,800 This is the National Weather Service, 359 00:12:49,800 --> 00:12:51,920 reputable news organization. 360 00:12:51,920 --> 00:12:53,960 Meteorologists who are clearly communicating 361 00:12:53,960 --> 00:12:55,360 their credentials and expertise. 362 00:12:55,360 --> 00:12:56,000 Exactly. 363 00:12:56,000 --> 00:12:59,480 And be wary of sources that are making sensationalized claims, 364 00:12:59,480 --> 00:13:02,600 relying on clickbait headlines, or just lacking 365 00:13:02,600 --> 00:13:03,720 that scientific rigor. 366 00:13:03,720 --> 00:13:06,240 It's all about critical thinking and media literacy. 367 00:13:06,240 --> 00:13:08,520 But even with the best information, 368 00:13:08,520 --> 00:13:09,960 weather can be pretty unpredictable. 369 00:13:09,960 --> 00:13:12,120 Even the most sophisticated models 370 00:13:12,120 --> 00:13:13,760 can't always get it 100% right. 371 00:13:13,760 --> 00:13:14,400 That's true. 372 00:13:14,400 --> 00:13:16,800 Weather forecasting is a complex science. 373 00:13:16,800 --> 00:13:19,200 And there's always going to be some degree of uncertainty 374 00:13:19,200 --> 00:13:20,120 involved. 375 00:13:20,120 --> 00:13:22,160 But that's part of what makes it so fascinating. 376 00:13:22,160 --> 00:13:24,440 We're constantly learning and improving. 377 00:13:24,440 --> 00:13:26,000 And even with those limitations, 378 00:13:26,000 --> 00:13:28,320 we've made some incredible strides in our ability 379 00:13:28,320 --> 00:13:30,840 to predict and understand weather patterns. 380 00:13:30,840 --> 00:13:32,640 And those advancements have undoubtedly 381 00:13:32,640 --> 00:13:34,240 saved countless lives. 382 00:13:34,240 --> 00:13:35,760 It's really remarkable when you think about it. 383 00:13:35,760 --> 00:13:36,640 It really is. 384 00:13:36,640 --> 00:13:40,240 And speaking of remarkable, we can't forget about all 385 00:13:40,240 --> 00:13:44,440 those incredible volunteer weather observers 386 00:13:44,440 --> 00:13:45,720 that we have across the country. 387 00:13:45,720 --> 00:13:48,640 These folks are out there contributing valuable data 388 00:13:48,640 --> 00:13:52,280 to the NWS, which helps improve forecasts and warnings. 389 00:13:52,280 --> 00:13:53,000 Yeah, absolutely. 390 00:13:53,000 --> 00:13:55,760 They're the unsung heroes of meteorology, 391 00:13:55,760 --> 00:13:58,160 often putting themselves in harm's way, 392 00:13:58,160 --> 00:13:59,800 to provide that critical information 393 00:13:59,800 --> 00:14:01,280 during severe weather events. 394 00:14:01,280 --> 00:14:02,000 Right. 395 00:14:02,000 --> 00:14:05,680 They're the storm spotters, the skyworn volunteers, 396 00:14:05,680 --> 00:14:08,280 the people taking daily measurements of rainfall 397 00:14:08,280 --> 00:14:08,920 and temperature. 398 00:14:08,920 --> 00:14:11,440 They're a vital part of this whole weather enterprise. 399 00:14:11,440 --> 00:14:13,120 And what's really cool is that anyone 400 00:14:13,120 --> 00:14:16,480 can get involved with these citizen science projects, 401 00:14:16,480 --> 00:14:19,480 like Cochor HS, which is the community-collaborate 402 00:14:19,480 --> 00:14:20,760 rain, hail, and snow network. 403 00:14:20,760 --> 00:14:21,560 Exactly. 404 00:14:21,560 --> 00:14:24,560 It's a great way to contribute to scientific research 405 00:14:24,560 --> 00:14:26,440 and learn more about weather and climate. 406 00:14:26,440 --> 00:14:29,040 You might even discover a passion for meteorology 407 00:14:29,040 --> 00:14:30,680 that you never knew you had. 408 00:14:30,680 --> 00:14:32,200 That's the beauty of science, right? 409 00:14:32,200 --> 00:14:32,840 Right. 410 00:14:32,840 --> 00:14:34,080 It's for everyone. 411 00:14:34,080 --> 00:14:36,240 And there's always something new to learn. 412 00:14:36,240 --> 00:14:37,720 Now, let's shift gears a little bit 413 00:14:37,720 --> 00:14:40,720 and talk about the future of meteorology. 414 00:14:40,720 --> 00:14:43,960 What are some of the trends and challenges on the horizon? 415 00:14:43,960 --> 00:14:46,080 Well, one of the most exciting areas of advancement 416 00:14:46,080 --> 00:14:47,640 is in computer modeling. 417 00:14:47,640 --> 00:14:49,520 As technology continues to evolve, 418 00:14:49,520 --> 00:14:53,160 we can create these more and more sophisticated models that 419 00:14:53,160 --> 00:14:57,040 can simulate weather patterns with incredible accuracy. 420 00:14:57,040 --> 00:15:00,160 So better forecasts, more lead time for warnings, 421 00:15:00,160 --> 00:15:02,520 and a deeper understanding of how weather systems work. 422 00:15:02,520 --> 00:15:03,360 Precisely. 423 00:15:03,360 --> 00:15:05,360 And with this increasing amount of data 424 00:15:05,360 --> 00:15:07,200 that we're getting from satellites, radar, surface 425 00:15:07,200 --> 00:15:10,000 observations, we have a much more comprehensive view 426 00:15:10,000 --> 00:15:12,080 of the atmosphere than we ever have before. 427 00:15:12,080 --> 00:15:12,720 It's amazing. 428 00:15:12,720 --> 00:15:15,600 It sounds like we're really on the cusp of some major breakthroughs 429 00:15:15,600 --> 00:15:17,000 in forecasting. 430 00:15:17,000 --> 00:15:19,040 But it's not just about the technology, is it? 431 00:15:19,040 --> 00:15:21,800 There's also this growing focus on understanding 432 00:15:21,800 --> 00:15:25,000 the human impact of weather and climate change. 433 00:15:25,000 --> 00:15:26,160 That's a crucial point. 434 00:15:26,160 --> 00:15:29,320 Meteorologists are playing this increasingly important role 435 00:15:29,320 --> 00:15:32,080 in helping communities prepare for and mitigate 436 00:15:32,080 --> 00:15:33,760 the effects of climate change. 437 00:15:33,760 --> 00:15:37,960 Everything from sea level rise to more extreme weather events. 438 00:15:37,960 --> 00:15:40,720 So it's not just about predicting the weather anymore. 439 00:15:40,720 --> 00:15:45,360 It's about helping people adapt and thrive in a changing world. 440 00:15:45,360 --> 00:15:45,860 Exactly. 441 00:15:45,860 --> 00:15:48,280 And that requires collaboration across disciplines, 442 00:15:48,280 --> 00:15:51,840 from social scientists to engineers to policymakers. 443 00:15:51,840 --> 00:15:53,800 It's truly an interdisciplinary field. 444 00:15:53,800 --> 00:15:55,280 It sounds like the future of meteorology 445 00:15:55,280 --> 00:15:57,160 is full of possibilities. 446 00:15:57,160 --> 00:15:58,840 But before we look too far ahead, 447 00:15:58,840 --> 00:16:01,080 let's bring it back to National Weather Person's Day. 448 00:16:01,080 --> 00:16:02,280 Great idea. 449 00:16:02,280 --> 00:16:04,640 It's a day to celebrate the hard work and dedication 450 00:16:04,640 --> 00:16:07,880 of everyone who contributes to our understanding of weather, 451 00:16:07,880 --> 00:16:11,040 from those researchers who are pushing the boundaries of science, 452 00:16:11,040 --> 00:16:14,240 to those broadcasters who are communicating those forecasts, 453 00:16:14,240 --> 00:16:15,400 right to our living rooms. 454 00:16:15,400 --> 00:16:16,360 Absolutely. 455 00:16:16,360 --> 00:16:19,120 And on that note, we want to give a special shout out 456 00:16:19,120 --> 00:16:22,080 to all the amazing meteorologists out there, 457 00:16:22,080 --> 00:16:25,080 especially those who are working tirelessly behind the scenes 458 00:16:25,080 --> 00:16:27,240 at the National Weather Service. 459 00:16:27,240 --> 00:16:29,040 Your work truly makes a difference. 460 00:16:29,040 --> 00:16:30,000 Couldn't agree more. 461 00:16:30,000 --> 00:16:32,160 And to all those aspiring meteorologists up there, 462 00:16:32,160 --> 00:16:33,720 the future is bright. 463 00:16:33,720 --> 00:16:34,840 The field needs you. 464 00:16:34,840 --> 00:16:37,880 We need those passionate individuals who 465 00:16:37,880 --> 00:16:40,240 are ready to tackle the challenges 466 00:16:40,240 --> 00:16:42,840 and embrace all those opportunities that lie ahead. 467 00:16:42,840 --> 00:16:46,160 It's amazing to think about how far we've come, 468 00:16:46,160 --> 00:16:50,360 from those early observations with people like John Jeffries, 469 00:16:50,360 --> 00:16:52,920 to these incredibly complex forecasting systems 470 00:16:52,920 --> 00:16:54,000 that we have today. 471 00:16:54,000 --> 00:16:56,400 It really highlights the importance of science 472 00:16:56,400 --> 00:16:57,760 and technology in our lives. 473 00:16:57,760 --> 00:16:58,240 Absolutely. 474 00:16:58,240 --> 00:17:00,120 And the role of those dedicated individuals 475 00:17:00,120 --> 00:17:01,320 who make it all happen. 476 00:17:01,320 --> 00:17:03,600 They're the ones who are constantly pushing the boundaries, 477 00:17:03,600 --> 00:17:06,120 improving our understanding, and ultimately, 478 00:17:06,120 --> 00:17:07,440 helping to keep us safe. 479 00:17:07,440 --> 00:17:09,120 So speaking of dedicated individuals, 480 00:17:09,120 --> 00:17:11,200 we've talked about all these different career 481 00:17:11,200 --> 00:17:14,120 paths within meteorology, from the National Weather Service 482 00:17:14,120 --> 00:17:15,520 to the private sector and research. 483 00:17:15,520 --> 00:17:19,440 But for anyone listening who's maybe feeling inspired 484 00:17:19,440 --> 00:17:21,760 and thinking about a career in this field, 485 00:17:21,760 --> 00:17:23,640 what advice would you give them? 486 00:17:23,640 --> 00:17:25,800 Well, first and foremost, I would say, 487 00:17:25,800 --> 00:17:28,400 nurture that curiosity. 488 00:17:28,400 --> 00:17:33,400 Read books, watch documentaries, explore online resources, 489 00:17:33,400 --> 00:17:36,400 maybe even set up a simple weather station in your backyard. 490 00:17:36,400 --> 00:17:37,600 Oh, that's a great idea. 491 00:17:37,600 --> 00:17:39,480 Get some hands-on experience learned by doing. 492 00:17:39,480 --> 00:17:40,160 Exactly. 493 00:17:40,160 --> 00:17:43,160 And as you start progressing through school, 494 00:17:43,160 --> 00:17:47,120 make sure you focus on those STEM subjects, science, 495 00:17:47,120 --> 00:17:49,120 technology, engineering, and math. 496 00:17:49,120 --> 00:17:51,400 Those are really the building blocks for any career 497 00:17:51,400 --> 00:17:52,280 in meteorology. 498 00:17:52,280 --> 00:17:55,160 Because at its core, meteorology is a science. 499 00:17:55,160 --> 00:17:58,400 So a strong foundation in those subjects is crucial. 500 00:17:58,400 --> 00:17:59,040 Absolutely. 501 00:17:59,040 --> 00:18:02,640 And don't be afraid to reach out to working meteorologists. 502 00:18:02,640 --> 00:18:04,880 Network, ask questions, seek out mentors. 503 00:18:04,880 --> 00:18:07,600 Most people in this field are so passionate about their work. 504 00:18:07,600 --> 00:18:09,160 And they're usually more than happy to share 505 00:18:09,160 --> 00:18:10,600 their knowledge and experience. 506 00:18:10,600 --> 00:18:11,720 I love that. 507 00:18:11,720 --> 00:18:14,240 Finding a mentor can make such a difference, 508 00:18:14,240 --> 00:18:16,720 especially in a field like meteorology. 509 00:18:16,720 --> 00:18:19,680 Now, we can't wrap up this National Weather Person's Day 510 00:18:19,680 --> 00:18:23,640 celebration without acknowledging those unsung heroes, 511 00:18:23,640 --> 00:18:25,480 the volunteer weather observers. 512 00:18:25,480 --> 00:18:26,320 Oh, you're so right. 513 00:18:26,320 --> 00:18:28,600 They are out there in all kinds of conditions, 514 00:18:28,600 --> 00:18:30,120 collecting that valuable data that 515 00:18:30,120 --> 00:18:34,200 helps improve those forecasts and warnings, the storm spotters, 516 00:18:34,200 --> 00:18:37,920 the sky-worn volunteers, the citizen scientists who 517 00:18:37,920 --> 00:18:41,120 contribute so much to our understanding of weather. 518 00:18:41,120 --> 00:18:42,600 And you know what's really cool? 519 00:18:42,600 --> 00:18:44,440 Is that anyone can get involved. 520 00:18:44,440 --> 00:18:47,400 Citizen science projects like Cochlear AFH, 521 00:18:47,400 --> 00:18:51,560 the Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network, 522 00:18:51,560 --> 00:18:53,640 are a fantastic way for people to contribute 523 00:18:53,640 --> 00:18:55,000 to real scientific research. 524 00:18:55,000 --> 00:18:55,600 Exactly. 525 00:18:55,600 --> 00:18:57,920 You don't need a fancy degree to make a difference, 526 00:18:57,920 --> 00:19:00,520 just a passion for weather and a willingness to learn. 527 00:19:00,520 --> 00:19:02,680 I think that's a great takeaway for our listeners. 528 00:19:02,680 --> 00:19:05,360 Meteorology is a field that's accessible to everyone, 529 00:19:05,360 --> 00:19:07,480 whether you're pursuing it as a career, 530 00:19:07,480 --> 00:19:09,280 or you just have a casual interest in the weather. 531 00:19:09,280 --> 00:19:11,080 There's always something new to discover. 532 00:19:11,080 --> 00:19:12,760 There are always ways to get involved. 533 00:19:12,760 --> 00:19:13,800 Couldn't agree more. 534 00:19:13,800 --> 00:19:16,240 So the next time you check that forecast, 535 00:19:16,240 --> 00:19:18,840 take a moment to appreciate all the incredible work that 536 00:19:18,840 --> 00:19:23,240 goes into it, from those early pioneers like John Jeffries, 537 00:19:23,240 --> 00:19:26,880 to all the modern-day meteorologists and volunteers 538 00:19:26,880 --> 00:19:29,320 who are dedicated to understanding and predicting 539 00:19:29,320 --> 00:19:31,120 our ever-changing atmosphere. 540 00:19:31,120 --> 00:19:32,000 Well said. 541 00:19:32,000 --> 00:19:33,680 And to wrap things up, we want to encourage 542 00:19:33,680 --> 00:19:35,760 all of our weather enthusiasts out there 543 00:19:35,760 --> 00:19:37,720 to follow meteorologist Rob Jones. 544 00:19:37,720 --> 00:19:40,320 You can find him on Instagram at meteorologist on TikTok 545 00:19:40,320 --> 00:19:42,080 at TV Meteorologist. 546 00:19:42,080 --> 00:19:44,240 And on YouTube, just search for Rob Jones Hurricane. 547 00:19:44,240 --> 00:19:45,680 He's got some great content. 548 00:19:45,680 --> 00:19:47,800 You can also find the Meteorology Matters podcast 549 00:19:47,800 --> 00:19:49,360 playlist there as well. 550 00:19:49,360 --> 00:19:51,480 And one final thought to leave you with, 551 00:19:51,480 --> 00:19:55,560 every time you step outside and you feel the wind on your face, 552 00:19:55,560 --> 00:19:57,720 or you marvel at that stunning sunset, 553 00:19:57,720 --> 00:20:01,400 remember that you are experiencing the awe-inspiring power 554 00:20:01,400 --> 00:20:02,680 of our atmosphere. 555 00:20:02,680 --> 00:20:04,920 Take a moment to appreciate the science behind it all, 556 00:20:04,920 --> 00:20:07,440 and maybe even consider how you might contribute 557 00:20:07,440 --> 00:20:10,480 to our understanding of this incredible planet we call home. 558 00:20:10,480 --> 00:20:12,320 That's a perfect note to end on. 559 00:20:12,320 --> 00:20:14,920 Thanks for joining us for this special Meteorology Matters 560 00:20:14,920 --> 00:20:18,080 episode in celebration of National Weatherperson's Day. 561 00:20:18,080 --> 00:20:37,840 We'll catch you next time.