Abstract
In order to effectively forecast and tell the weather story, broadcast meteorology requires being both a scientist and a communicator. Weather is complex and there are various sources of information. Throughout the course of the day, the summer, and the hurricane season, various weather scenarios arise. Forecasting changes dramatically from a “typical” weather day to that of active, severe weather. All of these scenarios differ from specialized hurricane forecasting techniques.
Following the assessment of weather information and data, and the development of the forecasts, the weather information is translated into on-air broadcast segments. In addition to developing live broadcasts, meteorologists are expected to share the weather across various outreach platforms. Facebook, Twitter, web pages, webcasts, and mobile phone applications are now essential components for news; however, each requires a different approach to effectively communicate weather information. Meteorologists have to receive, interpret, and utilize forecast information, and then communicate that information effectively to their audience.
On-camera presence and presentation techniques are essential to broadcast meteorology. In order to be competitive in the job market, a video resume reel of on-camera work is essential.