The Complex Science Behind Meteorology

Will Rogers said it best, "If you don't like the weather in Oklahoma, stick around a while and it will change." No matter if it's raining, snowing, storming, or warm and sunny weather affects everyone every day. It determines what clothes you'll wear, how you feel, what you'll do and eat (hot soup or chili are good for cold days, while ice cream is great when it's hot). That's why the science of weather, or meteorology, is so important!

Meteorology is the study of changes in temperature, air pressure, moisture and wind direction in the troposphere. The troposphere is the bottom layer of the atmosphere where all our weather happens. Meteorology is a complex science that was established during the ‘50s and ‘60s. Meteorology as a field grew rapidly during that time, and it continues to grow. The advancement of supercomputers, satellites and the latest mathematical techniques lets News On 6 Chief Meteorologist Travis Meyer and the WARN Team predict the future, telling us whether we need a jacket, umbrella or sunglasses before we walk out the door.

Meteorology is a complex science that researchers are constantly learning more and more about, and a lot of that research takes place right here in Oklahoma. The University of Oklahoma boasts the #1 school in the nation for Mesoscale and Severe Storms research. OU's School of Meteorology is internationally recognized for innovative, state-of-the-science education and research. The National Weather Center, opened in 2006 on the OU campus, is home not only to OU meteorology students, but also combines the Norman National Weather Service, the National Severe Storms Laboratory, the Storm Prediction Center and three other research centers. The National Weather Center is one of the largest research centers in the world and carries out an average of $16 million each year in severe storms research.

If you're interested in becoming a meteorologist, or just want to learn more about the weather, visit these sites:

• OU School of Meteorology
• American Meteorological Society
• National Weather Association