Meteorologists study the earth's atmosphere and the ways it affects our environment.

The atmosphere consists of the air that covers the earth and the water vapor that turns into rain and snow. Meteorologists study what the atmosphere is made of and how it affects the rest of our environment.

Meteorologists usually specialize in one area:

Weather forecasting

Meteorologists who forecast the weather identify and interpret weather patterns to predict the weather. They try to predict what the weather will be like for a week, a month, or several years.

In order to predict the weather, meteorologists interpret and analyze information. They get data from:

• Weather satellites
• Photographs
• Computers

Some forecasters broadcast their forecasts on the internet, radio or TV. They warn if severe weather is nearby. Other meteorologists create forecasts for specific groups such as farmers, airplane pilots, and fishers.

Weather research

Some meteorologists develop new methods of data collection, observation, and forecasting. They study weather patterns to better understand how tornados, hurricanes, and other types of severe weather form. Some researchers study the chemical and physical properties of the atmosphere.

Weather researchers use weather balloons and Doppler radar to find patterns in violent storm systems. They study the patterns to determine the direction of a storm and how strong it will be.

Climate science

Climatologists are meteorologists who study past records of weather. This includes wind, rainfall, sunshine, and temperatures over land or oceans. They try to figure out what changes will occur over a long period of time. Many study the impact of pollution on climate and air quality. They may use geographic information systems (GIS) technology to gather and analyze data.