National Weatherperson’s Day

February 5th is National Weatherperson’s Day, an honorary day celebrating professionals who gather, analyze, report, and share weather phenomena. February 5th also marks the birthday of John Jeffries, one of the first weather observers who paved the way for better weather predictions and warning services. These advancements have made people’s lives easier and, in some cases, saved lives.

History of National Weatherperson’s Day

The National Weatherperson’s Day February schedule commemorates John Jeffries, one of the world’s first climate observers. Jeffries, a Boston physician, began reporting daily weather observations in Boston in 1774. Shortly after, he flew the world’s first balloon observations over London.

While originally referred to as National Weatherman’s Day, the name was eventually adapted to National Weatherperson’s Day to honor women who also play an important role in forecasting weather.

The Importance of Weather Forecasting

Weather information is crucial to our world. From providing people with accurate weather forecasts for planning vacations or outings to saving lives during severe weather,  weatherpersons are integral to the human population.

Every day, people turn to their favorite weather app or website to learn more about the daily and weekly forecasts. During impending natural disasters, data collection and research done behind the scenes give people sufficient time to get to safety. Weather forecasts can also help minimize economic impact, especially during inclement weather conditions.

The Work of Weather Observers

Many people don’t understand the extent of research and technology involved in compiling weather data. Behind the scenes, many professionals work together to provide people with accurate predictions.

Collecting and reporting weather data is an in-depth process that requires research, training, and expertise. Brave storm chasers and field meteorologists track daily measurements of emerging weather conditions. 

After the research is collected and analyzed, meteorologists create graphics that are easy to understand to educate the public. Broadcast meteorology also includes media appearances to share information in a way that’s easy to understand while providing viewers with disaster preparedness tips.

Together, broadcast and field meteorologists, storm chasers, climate observers, researchers, and climatologists collectively provide Americans and the rest of the world with the weather information they need to stay safe.

Challenges and Advancements in Daily Weather Observations

Climate change requires weatherpersons to adapt and adjust to accommodate more severe storms and weather patterns better. The advancement of technology, including supercomputers, satellites, and machine learning, continues to further the weathercasting industry.

Ongoing research and education are also important to improving safety expectations and standards. Faster data collection and analysis give people even more time to prepare for upcoming dangerous weather patterns. 

Better weather tools also help weatherpersons reach more rural locations, extending safety precautions to more populations worldwide.

How to Celebrate National Weatherperson’s Day

Here are a few excellent ways you can celebrate National Weatherperson’s Day in your own community.

Thank Your Local Weatherperson

Showing gratitude and appreciation for the important work your local weatherperson does is a great way to celebrate this national event. Post to social media and tag your favorite weather person. Send a quick email or call your local weather station to let them know you appreciate their work.

Learn More About Meteorology

Learning more about meteorology can help people better understand everything about predicting weather. Meteorology has come a long way since John Jeffries began taking daily weather manually in the early days, but the work is no less important. 

In fact, while America’s first weather observers played an important role in weather forecasting, today, the industry has become more advanced and precise.

Share Your Weather Stories

Sharing your own weather stories increases awareness and helps personalize meteorology as a whole. Create your own social media post sharing how the weather has impacted your life and that of your family. Share photos or videos of interesting weather patterns, helping to further the weather discussion.

Support Weather-Related Organizations

Supporting weather-related organizations is also important in supporting meteorologists. Some great organizations that deserve support include the National Weather Service (NWS) and the American Meteorological Society (AMS). 

These organizations rely on both professional meteorologists and volunteer storm spotters to gather necessary information about weather and climate forecasts.

You can also show support through your local weather clubs/associations. Many of these clubs play an important role in collecting and analyzing local data while nurturing future researchers.

The Bottom Line

It has been over 250 years since John Jeffries began taking daily weather observations in Boston. Since then, organizations like the National Weather Service have compiled teams and strategies that offer faster and more precise weather reporting, making daily life more convenient and saving lives.

The best way to honor the important field of meteorology is to celebrate National Weatherperson’s Day. Show your appreciation, raise awareness, learn more about weather forecasting, and make it a point to celebrate this year.