Meteorology as a career choice
- World Meteorological Day : 23 March -

Ranjan K Baruah *

Studying weather patterns is very important as it helps us in many ways. One of the terms which is associated with weather is meteorology. It is the science of weather and is essentially an interdisciplinary science because the atmosphere, land and ocean constitute an integrated system.

The three basic aspects of meteorology are observation, understanding and prediction of weather. There are many kinds of routine meteorological observations. Some of them are made with simple instruments like the thermometer for measuring temperature or the anemometer for recording wind speed.

Every 23 March, the World Meteorological Organization commemorates the coming into force of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization on 23 March 1950. It showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to the safety and wellbeing of society and is celebrated with activities around the world.

The themes chosen for World Meteorological Day reflect topical weather, climate or water-related issues. The theme for World Meteorological Day 2025 is "Closing the early warning gap together".

The beginnings of meteorology in India can be traced to ancient times. Early philosophical writings of the 3000 B.C. era, such as the Upanishadas, contain serious discussion about the processes of cloud formation and rain and the seasonal cycles caused by the movement of earth round the sun.

Varahamihira's classical work, the Brihatsamhita, written around 500 A.D., provides clear evidence that a deep knowledge of atmospheric processes existed even in those times. It was understood that rains come from the sun (Adityat Jayate Vrishti) and that good rainfall in the rainy season was the key to bountiful agriculture and food for the people.

Kautilya's Arthashastra contains records of scientific measurements of rainfall and its application to the country's revenue and relief work. Kalidasa in his epic, 'Meghdoot', written around the seventh century, even mentions the date of onset of the monsoon over central India and traces the path of the monsoon clouds.

A meteorology career involves studying and forecasting weather patterns, with opportunities ranging from weather forecasting to climate research and even media weather casting. Meteorologists can work in government, academia, the private sector, or broadcast media.

Meteorologists are engaged in weather forecasting which predicts short-term and long-term weather conditions; Climate Research which studies long-term weather patterns and climate change; data analysis which analyzes weather data from various sources, including satellites and weather stations; communication which presents weather information to the public through media or reports.

There are also specialized roles which include forensic meteorology (reconstructing weather conditions for investigations), operational meteorology (providing weather forecasts for specific industries), and more.

Courses include graduation and post graduation level in meteorology or atmospheric sciences, etc. Designation includes atmospheric scientist, climatologist, weather forecaster, weather analyst, environmental scientist, climate change analyst, remote sensing scientist, air quality specialist, etc.

Apart from qualifications like a masters degree in physics or mathematics one must have strong mathematical skills as meteorology is a mathematically-intensive field, requiring a strong understanding of calculus, statistics, and other mathematical concepts.

Other important attributes include physics knowledge, computer skills, analytical skills, communication skills, etc. Meteorologists often need to communicate their findings to the public, so strong communication skills are important Indian Institute Tropical Meteorology (IITM) is recognized as a national centre for basic and applied research in Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences.

The Institute has state-of-the-art world-class infrastructure and facilities. IITM is working dedicatedly on these subjects with emphasis on Tropical Meteorology and Monsoon Studies.