Forensic Meteorologists

I. JOB SUMMARY

Main Topic: Physical Geography
Secondary Topic: Environment and Society

Overview: Atmospheric scientists study the weather and climate to understand how they affect human activity and the earth. Forensic meteorologist is a type of atmospheric scientist that focus on historic weather patterns. They use these historic weather patterns to reconstruct specific weather conditions for a location and time. When an unusual event occurred, like a traffic accident or fire, a forensic meteorologist determines the role weather played in the event. They can be called to testify in a court of law, usually as an expert witness. They will use local weather reports like radar or satellite images, surface observations, and eyewitness accounts in their determinations. They tend to work as contractors in the private sector, but can be employed by government agencies.

Geographers at work: Physical geographers, Environmental geographers, Climatologists, Meteorologists

Recommended College Courses: Introduction to Physical Geography, Environmental Management, Weather and Climate, Research Methods in Geography, Introduction in Environmental Geography, Air Quality Management, Meteorology, Climatology

Skills: GIS, remote sensing, geospatial technology, climate and weather forecasting, Quantitative Methods, Environmental Mapping and modeling, Field Methods, Meteorology

Occupation Group: Life, Physical, and Social Science

Learn more about Forensic Meteorologists from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm