Fundamental Of Weather Observing

Weather observing is a profession that is learned in several different ways. The first way is through the U. S Military. The Air Force has a school which is attended by members of all branches of the military. Years ago the technical school would last 12-13 weeks than you would move on to your first assignment. After re-enlistment, you would than go to forecasting school for 8-10 months. Now the two schools have merged so you receive training for both weather observing and forecasting. Another method of learning the art of weather observing is to attend a private institution for approximately the same amount of time. There is some form of tuition involved with the private institution. And the last way is to be trained by a certified weather observer over a period of time. The National Weather Service issues a 100 question test. Upon completion with a score of at least 80 or better an individual is certified to take weather observations.


A weather observation consist of many different parameters. If you would look at an aviation weather observation from left to right, the first thing you would notice is the word Metar or Speci. An aviation observation must go out every hour at any given airport normally between 50 minutes past the hour to the top of the hour. This is known as a Metar observation. If certain weather criteria changes during the hour a Speci (special) observation is transmitted. An observation consist of the date, time of observation, wind direction and speed, visibility in statute miles (sm), any weather occurring at the airport such as rain snow thunderstorms etc., cloud height and sky coverage, temperature and dew point in Celsius, altimeter (barometric pressure) and any necessary remarks. Typical remarks might be lightning, thunderstorms, hail and the diameter of the hail, temperature and pressure data, rainfall, snow fall and depth.

Weather observers are also known as Meteorological Technicians. For more information on weather observing, visit a NOAA or National Weather Weather site on the web

By: Jim Doering

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The author is a Meteorological Technician in Cincinnati Ohio. My weather experience spans 24 years and consist of the U.S. Airforce, National Weather Service, and the FAA. Before working professionally in the weather field, it was a hobby and passion from an early age. I am married, have two adult daughters, and a Black Labrador Retriever who loves an occasional sip of Guiness Beer. Please visit my website @ ovweather.com www.24hourwebcash.com/french3745