Meteorologists
Job Description:
One of the main areas of work for a Meteorologist is weather forecasting. Meteorologists specialising in this area are also called Operation Meteorologists. They gather information on various parameters like air pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind velocity and apply physical and mathematical relationships to make short- and long-range weather forecasts. The services provided as a weather forecaster may differ, depending upon the user. Like for the public the daily weather report forecast by a meteorologist and published in the newspapers, or broadcast through radio and television would be general in nature. In case of providing information for execution of flights, the forecast would be much more specific and detailed. In fields of agriculture and fisheries also the meteorologist has an important role to play. Weather forecast as well as forecast on crop yield is provided to the farmer on regular basis. Regular forecasting services are also made available to fishermen and ships are informed about weather conditions, and warned against cyclones.
Physical Meteorologists study the chemical and physical properties of the atmosphere and also factors affecting the formation of clouds, rain, snow, and other such weather phenomenon. Climatologists specialise in analysing and interpreting past records of wind, rainfall, sunshine, and temperature in specific areas or regions, which helps in effective land use and agricultural production of that region. Other research meteorologists study air currents, composition of the atmosphere and its various properties, the effects of atmospheric pollution and apply their finding in providing advice on pollution control.
Educational Qualification:
Training is offered to meteorologists mostly at the postgraduate level, and therefore a B.Sc. preferably in physics or mathematics is essential. However Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) also recruits fresh graduates in physics as senior observers and provides them with on the job training.
Opening:
The main opining of jobs is in the Department of Meteorology of the Government of India. However, the openings are also available in aviation and maritime operations, together with teaching and research.
