Meteorology is a science related to the study of atmosphere. Meteorologists research on subjects like atmosphere, cyclones, climate and weather etc.

They provide forecasting services to general public, aviation, agriculture, fisheries, marine sector and industries. Meteorologists use earth satellites and computers to track changes and record observations across the entire world. These professionals analyze  weather maps covering large geographical areas and related charts including upper air maps and soundings.

Besides weather forecasting, Meteorologists work in several research areas such as radioactive fall out, the dynamics of hurricanes and ozone levels etc.

The work of a Meteorologists can be classified into three areas---

Operational Areas

Operational work includes weather forecasting specially. In this area, the professionals interpret information reported from satellite radar and remote sensors.With the help of processed information, the chart and maps are prepared. These information are vital for farmers, fishermen, mariners, water and flood control boards and energy departments.

Further, Meteorologists can specialize for providing services in Aviation Meteorology, Climatology, Hydrometeorology, Marine Meteorology as well as Synoptic Meteorology etc.

Research Areas

Research work includes collection, analysis and interpretation of data relating to winds, humidity and temperature etc. This is used for prediction and understanding of various aspects of climate for future planning such as green house effect etc.

Applied Areas

Applied work includes study of air currents, composition and various properties of atmosphere, effects of atmospheric pollution and the
professional of this area gives advices related to these subjects.

Besides these three areas, there are some other streams too. In these streams, Industrial Meteorology and Physical Meteorology are most important sectors.

IMs study and solve problems related to pollution and emissions in various industries while PMs study the nature of atmosphere which includes its chemical composition and other properties.

Study route to meteorological science courses is 10+2 or Intermediate or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics subjects, followed by graduation in same subjects and after it post graduation degree in Meteorology. After graduation, one can try an examination conducted by Staff Selection Commission for recruiting as a Senior Observer in Indian Meteorological Departments in Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai. The Indian Meteorological Department provides them with on-the-job training as meteorologists.

Openings are also available in aviation and maritime operations, teaching and research.