National Weather Observers Day

National Weather Observers Day is a special day dedicated to honoring those who observe and report weather conditions. It celebrates both professional meteorologists and amateur weather enthusiasts who contribute to weather data collection and help protect lives and property through their observations.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May 4th annually
Tagged as: Weather observation, meteorology
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalWeatherObserversDay
When was it founded?: May 4, 1989
Who founded it?: Alan Brue, a psychology student at the State University of New York

History of National Weather Observers Day

National Weather Observers Day was created by Alan Brue in 1989 while he was studying psychology at the State University of New York. Despite not being in a weather-related field, Brue had a passion for weather observation and wanted to establish a day that would celebrate both amateur and professional weather enthusiasts. The day recognizes the important contributions of weather observers who help the National Weather Service fulfill its mission of protecting lives and property by providing valuable data about weather conditions.

Timeline

650 BCE: Babylonians use astrology and cloud patterns for weather prediction
1800s: The invention of the telegraph revolutionizes weather forecasting
1854: The United States Army Signal Corps establishes an official weather service
1870: The United States government creates the National Weather Service
1989: Alan Brue creates National Weather Observers Day on May 4

Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 4	Sunday
2026	May 4	Monday
2027	May 4	Tuesday
2028	May 4	Thursday
2029	May 4	Friday
2030	May 4	Saturday

How National Weather Observers Day Is Observed

People celebrate National Weather Observers Day in various creative ways. Many families bring blankets outdoors to observe the sky and clouds, often in the morning, creating shapes and characters from the clouds they see. Weather enthusiasts and clubs organize “Party in the Sky” gatherings where they eat and drink while observing the sky. Some astronomy clubs use the occasion to observe the night sky and star movements. Others celebrate by reading weather-related books, watching weather forecasts, or even making family competitions to predict the upcoming week’s weather.

Fun Facts About National Weather Observers Day

Storm Spotters were first used during World War II to warn military artillery factories about approaching lightning. Weather stations and observers make approximately 1,000 weather observations daily from land, sea, and air locations worldwide. The CoCoRaHS (Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network) allows volunteers to participate in weather observation by setting up rain gauges and reporting measurements to the National Weather Service.

Quiz

Who founded National Weather Observers Day?
In what year was National Weather Observers Day established?
What date is National Weather Observers Day celebrated annually?
What was the founder’s field of study?

(Answers: 1. Alan Brue, 2. 1989, 3. May 4, 4. Psychology)

FAQs

How can I participate in National Weather Observers Day?
You can participate by observing the sky, tracking weather patterns, joining the CoCoRaHS volunteer network, setting up a personal weather station, or simply learning more about meteorology.

Is National Weather Observers Day only for professional meteorologists?
No, it’s for anyone with an interest in weather, including amateurs, hobbyists, and professionals alike.

How do weather observers contribute to society?
Weather observers provide crucial data that helps meteorologists predict weather patterns, issue warnings for severe weather, and protect lives and property.

Importance of National Weather Observers Day

National Weather Observers Day highlights the critical role that weather observation plays in our daily lives. Weather prediction saves lives and property by providing timely information about hurricanes and other severe weather events. The day also helps us appreciate the often unnoticed work of weather observers and meteorologists who work around the clock to keep communities safe. Additionally, it encourages learning about weather phenomena and fosters a deeper understanding of our natural environment.