Meteorologists study the climate and weather and examine their direct impact on the earth and human activity. They measure meteorological components including the temperature and atmospheric pressure, humidity, the speed of the wind, and dew point to determine the current and forthcoming forecasts. They prepare long- and short-term weather forecasts using computer programs, mathematical models, satellite radars, and local data.
Meteorologists use computers to create graphics and charts that help them report current weather conditions and perform community outreach initiatives to better educate and inform the public about weather safety. When necessary, they issue warnings about potentially hazardous weather systems or severe weather threats, including hurricanes and tornadoes. Forensic meteorologists are called upon to study historical data to reconstruct weather conditions during a specific time or at a specific location and to investigate roles that weather might play in an event including a fire or traffic accident. Meteorologists have a four-year bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric sciences.