Tuesday, December 22, 2015

The Many Kinds Of Meteorologists

By Carey Bourdier


When you think about the science of meteorology, TV weather men and storm chasers might be the first two occupations that spring to mind. However, this science of understanding atmospheric phenomena and predicting the weather has many different branches.

One career option for the budding meteorologist is the field of operational meteorology and this is one of the branches of meteorology that most people know about. These scientists will earn at least a bachelor's degree and during their studies they will become familiar with weather systems, weather patterns, observational balloon theodolites and other optical instruments as well as learning about gathering satellite data and using meteorology-related computer programs. After receiving a degree, this person might seek a job at the Weather Channel or perhaps NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

Atmospheric meteorology is closely related to operational meteorology; however, the latter branch of this science is more specialized and geared to providing weather information for the general public, airports, the military and other industries that might need up-to-date information about upcoming weather conditions. An atmospheric meteorologist will be the person who studies the physical characteristics of the world's atmosphere and studies how this effects the environment such as air pollution, droughts and climate change. Again, you will learn how to use a balloon theodolite, a barometer, an anemometer and other optical instruments as well as weather satellites and various computer programs.

Climatologists also are meteorologists that study weather trends and changes, and in this way, the job is very similar to atmospheric meteorology. However, a climatologist will look back at weather data and weather patterns that have occurred for centuries and even hundreds of thousands or millions of years. A climatologist might not use devices such as theodolites or barometers and instead focuses on historic data or studying ice cores to learn more about ancient weather patterns.

For those who are fans of both weather and TV shows such as CSI, the job of a forensic meteorologist might be a fun occupation to consider. You won't be trudging out into the field and using a balloon theodolite and other interesting optical instruments as this type of meteorologist, instead you will be asked to study the weather conditions on specific dates in time. This information can be useful for many types of court cases and even to help solve crimes. A forensic meteorologist might testify in court regarding a case where an airline failed to de-ice an airplane correctly or perhaps help law enforcement reconstruct what occurred during a serious car accident during inclement weather.

The field of meteorology is an excellent option for someone who enjoys studying data and drawing conclusions from data and someone who is interested in the weather in general. From using a theodolite to study weather balloons to learning complex computer software programs and studying historical data, the science of meteorology is an important one for all of humanity. These professionals work to devise early warning systems, track serious storm systems and help us better understand climate changes.




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