15 Meteorology Facts: Learn About This Branch Of Atmospheric Sciences

Like many others, you must have tuned into the local news channel or the radio to hear the temperature forecasts and weather predictions for the day.

However, have you ever wondered how weather prediction is done? Who makes these weather observations, and on what basis?

Let us introduce you to meteorology- the field of study that deals with weather observation, weather forecast, and climate study. Meteorologists focus on atmospheric predictability, tropical meteorology, and the study of weather systems like the water cycle, tornadoes, and heat waves to determine the weather of a partial area and its effect on surrounding lifeforms. They use a number of specialized instruments like weather satellites, weather balloons, sensors, and radars to help them make informed meteorological forecasts based on various factors like atmospheric flow, air pressure, wind speed, and temperature. These help them to issue weather warnings if needed and study important phenomena like global warming and climate change. Are you interested in becoming a meteorologist? Then read on for more!

Aviation Meteorology

Aviation meteorology is the study of how weather patterns and climate may affect aviation activities. It is a large part of air traffic management, which deals with the proper direction of aircraft in controlled airspace to ensure safe and hassle-free air travel. It deals with studying air patterns and other weather phenomena they may encounter on their path, which may require special maneuvers to overcome or reroute in case of extreme weather conditions. All aircrew is expected to be given training on how to react and handle the craft and passengers in case they encounter any strange weather conditions which may affect their journey.

Hydrometeorology

Hydrometeorology deals with the study of the water cycle and how it affects and is affected by different components of the weather. Hydrometerologists are usually tasked with studying and predicting how much precipitation and snow an area is set to receive, the water budget (i.e., the volume of water that flows in and out of a natural water body or system) and determines which areas are susceptible to destructive phenomena like storms, extratropical cyclones, and flash floods. The risk assessment of such natural disasters and collecting rainfall statistics make up a huge chunk of a hydrometeorological job.

Agricultural Meteorology

Agricultural meteorology deals with the effects of weather conditions on processes related to the planting and growing of food grains and other crops. This includes studying and researching which locations and weather conditions are best for certain crops, how to maximize crop yield, how the presence of animals in the area can benefit crop production, the effects of the water cycle on the crops, and how water bodies in the areas can be utilized for proper irrigation. They also study the effects of the weather and climate on the soil- as crops react differently to different soil compositions. On the other hand, agricultural meteorologists may also study how the presence of vegetation in the area affects its climate and weather and how to fix any unwanted changes.

Career, Jobs, And Study Of Meteorology

Students who are interested in becoming meteorologists in the future are advised to take up meteorology-focused degrees such as Atmospheric Sciences or Meteorology. Upon completing their degree, they can work in a number of weather-related fields, including weather forecasting divisions, air traffic control, mining, space research and development, national defense, and environmental meteorology.

FAQs

What are three facts about meteorology?

• There are around 10,000 weather stations on Earth, all of which collect and report meteorological data. Each weather station is connected to the other in a network.
• Meteorologists are usually only involved with the study of the lowest part of the Earth's atmosphere- the troposphere. Since the troposphere is the closest to the Earth's surface, it has the most effect on life.
• Many cultures believe that crickets make great storm warnings- when their chirps grow louder, be sure to expect a strong weather system like a storm or tornado coming your way.

Who invented meteorology?
The Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, credited with the first description of what we know today as the water cycle, is hailed as the creator of meteorology. However, Luke Howard, an Englishman from the 1800s who was the first to make detailed observations about the weather and its effect on other factors, is considered the father of meteorology.

Why is meteorology important?
Meteorology is concerned with long-term climate and weather changes and their possible effects on human populations, in addition to making weather forecasts. Modern meteorological research places a high priority on the effects of climate change.

What are the branches of meteorology?
The four major branches of metrology are dynamical meteorology, synoptic meteorology, physical meteorology, and applied meteorology.

How do I get a meteorology degree?
There are specialized degrees that one can study for to qualify as a meteorologist, like BTech in Atmospheric Sciences or BSc in Meteorology.