Saturday, 13 October 2012

Careers in Weather You May Find Appealing




Are you interested in finding a new job or are you looking to change careers? If you are, do you also have a love for the weather or do you enjoy weather watching and tracking as a hobby? If you do, you may want to consider a career in a weather related field. After a close examination, you will see that you have an unlimited number of options.





When it comes to weather related careers, a meteorologist is often the first thing that comes to mind. In fact, many weather enthusiasts aspire to become professional meteorologists. Meteorologists are professionals who have received the proper amount of schooling, which often includes a degree in meteorology. Meteorologists rely on their knowledge and well as radar images and computer models to predict the weather.





When it comes to working as a meteorologist, you will find that you have a number of different options. Radio and television news stations are one of the biggest hirers of meteorologists. When taking this approach, you may find yourself on camera, but you may also simply work behind the scenes. In all honesty, your full job responsibilities will depend on the company in question.





Although we often associate weather related careers with meteorologists, it is important to remember that there are many other career positions and opportunities out there. For example, you may want to have a career as a weather teacher. In this type of work, you will also find that you have a number of different options. For instance, there are many individuals in the United States and all around the world who have a love for the weather and enjoy it as a hobby. For an affordable fee, you can run a local or online weather class. This class can help beginners learn how to track weather, predict it and much more.





In addition to teaching amateur weather enthusiasts how to accurate track weather, you may also be interested in teaching professionally. Although many elementary and high school teachers teach more than weather, you may be interested in this type of work. You may have the best success teaching an earth science class in a high school. If you would like to have your career focus more on weather, as opposed to other science related issues, it may be a good idea to examine college teaching positions. When working as a college teacher, you can help college students receive a degree in meteorology.





Should you decide to teach meteorology, whether it be at the college or high school level, it is important that you take schooling into consideration. To teach in many states, you must have a master’s degree. You may also be required to hold to multiple degrees, including a teaching degree, as well as a degree in meteorology. Although most weather related careers are the same, it is important to remember that you will be unable to get a teaching job overnight, especially without any prior experience or the proper education.





Another one of the many weather related positions that you may find is one that many do not necessarily think of, at least right away. Do you enjoy writing and researching? If you do, you may want to consider having a career as a weather writer. What is nice about working as a weather writer is the options that you have. For example, many newspaper and magazines can use the services of weather writers, on a fulltime basis or on a freelance basis. You can also create your own online weather website. This website can contain updated information on local weather, severe weather, as well as information the impact the weather has on the environment. Your website may be able to make money, overtime from affiliate programs, as well as paid advertisements.





As you can see, you have a number of different options, when looking for a weather related career or job. What is even more amazing is that the weather related jobs outlined above are just a few of the many that exist. You can find more opportunities by examining online job or career searching websites.


Friday, 12 October 2012

Neat At-Home Weather Tracking Tools




Are you interested in the weather? If you are constantly monitoring the weather outdoors, looking for changes, or examining ways that the weather impacts our lives and the planet, you may be a weather fanatic. If you are, do you own a number of weather tracking tools and equipment pieces? If not, you will want to take a close look at what is available. You may be surprised with all of the options that you have.





One of the first things that you will want to have, when looking to track or learn more about the weather from home is a thermometer. What is nice about thermometers nowadays is that you have a number of different options. In addition to standard indoor and outdoor thermometers, many now have digital viewing stations. These digital viewing stations, when properly hooked up can often tell you what the temperature is indoors, as well as outdoors. Other features, such as a clock and wind speed may be included.





Speaking of wind, there are a number of different weather devices that you can use to monitor the wind. For starters, there is a weather vane. Weather vanes need to be positioned on an elevated portion of your roof. They enable you to determine the direction of the wind. What is nice about weather vanes is that they come in a number of different styles, including those that are decorative in nature. For additional wind tracking information, an anemometer can offer assistance. These weather devices are used to help you determine the speed and pressure of the wind.





Another weather tool that you may want to examine is that of a sunshine recorder. Sunshine recorders are weather devices that are used to determine the amount of sunshine a particular location receives. Weather fanatics, but also those who make a living in the field of agriculture use and often rely on sunshine recorders. Sunshine recorders enable farmers to determine how much sunshine their crops are able to receive on average. In this aspect, sunshine recorders can help to benefit the economy.





Lightning detectors are another weather device that is used by many weather enthusiasts. What is nice about lightning detectors is that they come in a number of different formats. In fact, did you know that there is such a thing as a personal lightning detector? Personal lightning detectors are transportable and ideal for those enjoying outdoors activities, such as hiking, camping, or boating. With a personal lightning detector, you are able to determine when a lightning strike hits nearby.





A rain gauge is another weather tool that you may want to look into purchasing for yourself. Rain gauges are used by professional meteorologists to examine the exact amount of rainfall levels received over a specific period of time. Although extenuating circumstances, such as wind, may have an impact on rainfall totals, this is still a nice tracking tool for weather enthusiasts, such as yourself. Rain gauges come in a number of different formats, but what is nice about this weather device is that it is more than affordable.





In addition to a rain gauge, you may also want to examine snow gauges. Snow gauges are ideal for weather fanatics who reside in the north, as they are likely to experience constant snowfall during the winter months. Although similar in style to rain gauges, there are some differences. For example, snow gauges are often larger in size and they do have wider openings.





The above mentioned weather devices, tools, and equipment pieces are just a few of the many that you can use to track the weather right from your own home or backyard. In addition to the above mentioned weather tracking tools and equipment pieces, you may also want to examine full weather stations. Full weather stations often include a number of the above mentioned tools and equipment pieces all in one set. Many times, it is more affordable to purchase full weather station sets, when compared to individual weather tracking tools and equipment pieces.


Thursday, 11 October 2012

Ways to Check Your Local Weather




Are you in the process of planning a backyard barbeque, a snowmobiling trip, or another outdoor event? If you are, the weather may have a significant impact on your plans. If so, you may be looking for ways to check your local weather forecast, as well as ways to stay updated on any changes that may occur.





When it comes to checking your local weather forecast, you will find that you have a number of different options. Perhaps, the most common way that individuals check the weather is through their local news. Many local news programs have detailed weather segments, which often includes information on the current weather, as well as the extended weather forecast. As nice as it is to see your local weather forecast when watching the news, you are usually only provided with weathercasts in the morning, midday, and at night.





As previously stated, the local news is a great way to stay updated on your local weather, but these weather updates aren’t always available on demand. If you would like to have more control, when it comes to checking your local weather, you will want to turn to the internet. As more households report an increase in having at-home internet access, it is easier than ever to use the internet to view your local weather forecasts. Also, what is nice about using the internet is that you have a number of different options.





When looking for information on your local weather, one of your first stops should be the online websites for your local news stations. Although constant updates are not provided throughout the day on television, unless in cases of severe weather, you may find that the internet has updated information. Many news channels, even those on a local level, update their websites continually throughout the day and many also have real-time streaming radar images available on their websites.





In addition to visiting the websites of your local news channels, you may also want to examine national weather websites. Perhaps, the most popular is that of The Weather Channel. The online website for The Weather Channel enables you to type in your zip code and receive up-to-date weather alerts, temperatures, radar images, as well as extended forecasts. The website for The Weather Channel, as well as those for other national weather agencies, can easily be found with a standard internet search.





The Weather Channel is most well-known for these programs, but many other weather agencies offer them as well. These programs are weather updates on your computer, as well as on your cell phone. When looking to gain easy access to your local weather on your computer, you may want to examine the downloadable programs currently available, many of which are offered free of charge. As long as you are connected to the internet, a summary of your local weather should always appear on your screen, most often towards the bottom.





As previously stated, you may also be able to receive information and updates, concerning your local weather, on your cell phone. When it comes to these types of programs, you will find two main options. Many companies give you access to your local weather at any point in time, with a touch of a few cell phone buttons. On the other hand, some weather agencies, such as The Weather Channel, will send an alert to your cell phone only when severe weather watches or warnings go into effect. These types of updates are ideal in situations where you may lose power, as it may be the only way for you to receive weather updates. Unfortunately, these programs often require the payment of a monthly or yearly fee, but those fees are more than affordable and well worth the costs.





As you can see, there are a number of different ways that you can go about checking your current local weather, as well as the extend weather forecast. With television, radio, the internet, and a cell phone you should never be left in the dark, at least in terms of the weather.


Wednesday, 10 October 2012

Ways to Encourage Children to Learn About the Weather and Love It




Are you are parent? If you are, you may always be looking for ways to educate your child. The good news is that you have a number of different options, no matter how old or young your child is. One important topic that you will want to cover, when looking for ways to educate your child from home, is that of the weather. For ways that you can teach your child about the weather from home and get them to show interest in it are outlined below for your convenience.





When it comes to teaching your child about the weather from home, there are a number of important factors that you will want to take into consideration. Two of those factors are your child’s age, as well as their maturity level. Age and maturity will have an impact on what your child is able to do, in terms of experimentation. It may also have an impact on their fear. For instance, toddlers and preschoolers are more likely to be afraid of strong winds or thunder, as opposed to older elementary school aged children or teenagers.





Speaking of elementary school aged children and teenagers, if you are interested in teaching them about the weather, you will want to safely watch the weather from indoors. This is best to do during moderately severe weather, such as a thunderstorm or a snowstorm. Severe weather, especially weather in which warnings are posted for, is best not used for educational purposes, due to safety reasons. With that in mind, there are a number of benefits to closely watching the weather with your child, when you can do so. Your child may be amazed with what they see, all from the safety and comfort of their own home.





In addition to just watching the weather outdoors with your elementary school aged child or teenager, you will also want to discuss the weather. Does your child know what is causing the changes in the weather? Do they know why it is thundering? In addition to just discussing the weather with your child, your will also want to examine fun activities. These activities may involve photographing the weather events outdoors, with caution of course, or making drawings of what they see.





As for toddlers and preschoolers, you will want to start out small. After all, your child may be unfamiliar with weather, what it is, and the impact it can have on our lives, as well as wildlife. Speaking of which, that leads to a great at-home weather activity. What you will want to do is take your toddler or preschooler outside on a bright and sunny day. Have them examine their surroundings, such as the plants, flowers, insects, and other wildlife that may be outdoors. Directly following a rainstorm or a snowstorm, you and your child will want to return outside. Do they notice any changes?





As previously stated, there are a number of important factors that you will want to take into consideration, when looking to teach your child about the weather from home. Another important factor that you will always want to take into consideration is that of safety. Although watching the weather from indoors is typically safe, you will want to proceed with caution. For instance, never stand too close near a window or touch one during a thunderstorm. In the event of a hurricane or tornado, it is best to evacuate or seek shelter, depending on the situation at hand. Your at-home weather lesson plan should wait for another, safer day.





As outlined above, there are a number of different ways that you can go about educating your child on the weather, its causes, its impacts, and so forth from home. These simple, yet fun and educational weather related activities have a number of benefits, especially at the toddler and preschool levels. One of those benefits is developing a love for weather. In fact, that love could lead to a passionate hobby, as well as a profitable career in the future.


How You Can Learn More About the Weather




Do you enjoy watching the weather outdoors or do you enjoy tracking it? If you do, you may be looking for more information on weather. What is nice is that you have an unlimited number of options. There are a number of different ways that you can go about learning the impact the weather has on the environment, what causes the weather to constantly change, and so much more. In fact, you can even find tips on how to help you better track the weather at home, like your local rainfall totals.





As nice as it is to hear that there is a lot of information out there for you, concerning the weather, you may be wondering where this information is located. As previously stated, you have a number of different options. One of those options should involve the internet. In fact, when using the internet there are a number of different approaches that you can take to find updated weather related information online.





For starters, if you are looking for information on your current local weather, your extended weather forecast, or if you would like to see updated radar images of your area, you may want to visit the online websites of your local news stations. There are also a number of national news and weather agencies, such as The Weather Channel, that have this same information available online. Often times you will find that local weather information is updated to the minute or at least every ten or fifteen minutes. You should easily be able to find these websites by performing a standard internet search.





In addition to finding up-to-date information on your local weather, you can also find information on a number of other important weather related topics. For example, if you like to track the weather from your home, such as the wind direction, wind speed, or rainfall totals, you may want to find helpful weather tracking tips that can help you more accurately track the weather from your home. These types of websites are ones that are often run by professional meteorologists or long-term weather enthusiasts. These websites may contain graphs, descriptions, as well as videos. To find these types of weather related websites, perform a standard internet search.





Although the internet is one of the easiest ways to research weather and other weather related topics, it is important to remember that it isn’t your only option. You may also want to turn to the television or documentary videos. For starters, The Weather Channel was mentioned above. This national channel often has specials, such as ones that cover the greatest moments in the history of weather, and so forth. You may be able to learn a lot from these types of programs, which can also be found on other television stations as well. If you are curious about global warming and the impact that it may have on our environment, you may want rent or buy a documentary covering the subject, such as Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth.





The above mentioned ways are just a few of the many ways that you can learn more about the weather. Additional ideas involve visiting your local library or bookstore to examine the weather related books that are available. You may also want to subscribe to a science magazine or journal, especially one that covers weather related issues.


Tuesday, 9 October 2012

The Pros and Cons of Getting Weather Updates from Your Computer




Are you an individual who likes to stay updated on the weather, even in calm, sunny weather? If so, you are not alone. There are many individuals who feel much peace and comfort when they know what is going on outside. If you always find yourself checking your local weather or tuning into the weathercasts on your local news, you may also want to turn to the internet.





When it comes to using your computer and the internet to stay updated with the weather, you will find that there are a number of pros and cons to doing so. By examining these pros and cons, a few of which are outlined below, you can decide whether or not computer related weather updates and forecasts are right for you.





As for the pros or plus sides to using your computer and the internet to stay in the know about the weather, you will find that you have a number of different options. Did you know that there are an unlimited number of online websites that will provide you with updated and detailed information on your current weather, as well as the extended weather forecast? These online websites are often operated by national weather agencies, such as The Weather Channel, or by your local news stations. You can easily find these websites with a standard internet search.





In addition to visiting the online websites of your local news channels or national weather channels, you also have the option of receiving weather updates automatically on your computer. There are a number of software programs that you can have downloaded and installed on your computer. Many of these programs are available free of charge. Although you may see some variations, many of these programs will highlight your local temperature and possibly use a sun to symbolize sunny weather or clouds to symbolize cloudy skies. This information is likely to appear in a small corner of your computer. With that mind, many programs allow you to simply click on the program to get more detailed information, including an extended weather forecast.





If having a number of different options, when looking to use your computer and the internet to stay updated on your local weather isn’t enough, there are even more benefits. As previously stated, using the internet to check your local weather is often free. Your local news channels and other national weather agencies should post your local weather, radar pictures, as well as extended weather forecasts on their websites free of charge. As for the weather related computer software programs outlined above, you will find free programs, as well as those that charge you a small fee.





Although there are a number of pros or plus sides to using the internet and your computer to stay updated with what is happening outdoors, there are also a number of cons or downsides to doing so. For starters, if you are in the middle of severe weather, such as a severe snow or ice storm or a severe thunderstorm, you may be unable to use your computer. For the reason, you should not rely on your computer and the internet as your sole means of receiving weather information and updates. This is particularly important if you reside in an area that is known for its severe weather. In this case, you should look into investing in a weather radio or at least a battery operated radio.





Another con or downside to receiving your weather from the internet concerns the downloadable programs, which were outlined above. When using these desktop weather programs, it is important that you know the source. This is important, as you may receive more than a desktop weather program during the download process. It is not uncommon to have spyware or harmful programs downloaded onto your computer when you download a program from an unknown source. That does not mean that you should avoid these desktop weather programs altogether, but you should proceed with caution.





As outlined above, there are a number of pros and cons to getting your weather from your computer and the internet. As a reminder, which ever option you do choose, don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.


Monday, 8 October 2012

The Importance of Owning a Weather Radio




Do you own a weather radio? Although owning a weather radio is not required by any means, many individuals can benefit from owning and using a weather radio. Do you know if you are one of those individuals?





When it comes to determining if you should buy a weather radio, there are a number of important factors that you will want to take into consideration. For starters, do you live in an area that is prone to severe weather? If so, what type of severe weather are you most commonly exposed to? Weather radios are ideal for all weather events, but they are must haves in certain emergency situations, such as tornadoes or flash floods.





As previously stated, weather radios are ideal to have if you live in an area that is prone to flash floods or tornadoes. This is because these two types of weather events are often ones that give little or no notice. While meteorologists are able to predict the weather to some extent, tornados and flash floods are often considered unpredictable. Unfortunately, not all television stations are able to broadcast important weather alerts in a minute or twos notice. Weather radios, in most cases are.





As important as it is to know that weather radios can help you in the event of a severe weather emergency, you may be curious as to what they actually are and where you can find them. Technically, the weather updating process outlined above is referred to as a weather radio service. In addition to severe weather watches, warning, and updates, it is common for other important emergencies to be highlight on a weather radio service announcement. These events may include a large natural disaster or a statewide Amber Alert. As for the weather radio itself, you will find that you do have a number of different options.





Weather radios come in a wide range of formats. For example, most weather radios are battery operated radios, but radios with backup windup power are increasing in popularity. In addition to weather radios that simply broadcast important weather announcements from a weather radio service announcement, many weather radios also come with AM/FM radio tuners. In keeping with extra weather radio features, it is possible to find handheld radios that double as clocks, as well as flashlights. Although a little bit higher in price, these types of weather radios are great in an emergency.





If you would like to purchase a weather radio, you should be able to do so locally as well as online. If you live in an area that is prone to tornadoes, like the Midwest, you are likely to find a large selection of weather radios available for sale in your local retail stores. If you are unable to find what you were looking for, such as a weather radio that is stacked with additional features, you may want to turn to the internet. Many sports stores and online department stores have weather radios available for sale online. Also, you can perform a standard internet search with the phrases “weather radios,” or “weather radios for sale.”





As outlined above, having a weather radio on hand is important, especially to those who reside in areas that are prone to severe weather. It is also nice to know that you have a number of different options, in terms of buying a weather radio. With that in mind, it is important to understand proper use. A weather radio will not do you any good if you do not use it. Although you may not have to have your weather radio turned on all the time, you will want to do so when you feel or see that the weather may be changing, even slightly. If you have any severe weather watches or warnings, you will want to have your weather radio on, especially as you go to bed, as your weather radio will keep you updated, in the know, and hopefully safe.


Sunday, 7 October 2012

How to Have a Career in Meteorology




Do you love the weather? If you love tracking the weather from your home, if you enjoy reading up on ways that the weather impacts our lifestyle and wildlife, you may be considered a weather enthusiast. If so, have you ever thought about taking your love of the weather and meteorology and turning it into a profitable career?





As nice as it is to hear that you can take your love for weather and meteorology and turn it into a career, you may be curious as to how you can go about doing so. Unfortunately, loving the weather as a hobby isn’t always enough to have a career in meteorology. That is why if you are interested in having a weather related job, you may need to prepare for doing so.





One of the first steps in having a career in meteorology is taking a few meteorology classes at a college or university. Of course, a few classes are good, but you may also want to consider receiving a degree in meteorology. Even if you are an adult, you can still return to college. If you are concerned about the cost of doing so, you may want to examine scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. What is nice about pursuing a degree in meteorology is that many colleges and universities in the United States have these degree programs.





When getting a degree in meteorology or at least the equivalent training, it is important that you start to think about the future. Although we often associate weather related careers with meteorologists, there are many other career opportunities out there. For example, you can be a meteorology teacher or college professor, a weather writer or photographer. Yes, you do not have to decide right away which career path you would like to take, but it may offer you assistance.





Speaking of having an idea as to what you would like to do, you may want to consider getting your foot in the door. When doing so, there are a number of different approaches that you can take. For example, if you are interested in working as a television or radio meteorologist, you may want to get a part-time job at one of your local television or radio stations, even if your position isn’t related to meteorology. Although you may be able to get a paid position, you may also find unpaid internship positions available as well. Although unpaid, internships do have a number of benefits.





The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many that you can take to end up with a career in meteorology or another weather related field. As a reminder, unless you already have a meteorology degree or unless you minored in it during college, you will likely have to start from scratch. Although this can be frustrating and although it can take a lot of time, hard work, and devotion, it will pay off in the end.





As outlined above, it can be relatively easy to acquire a job in the field of meteorology, once you have the required schooling and training. With that in mind, you may be uninterested in doing so. If that is the case, so be it. You do not have to work in the field of meteorology to enjoy the weather and all that it has to offer.


Saturday, 6 October 2012

What to Do When Severe Weather Strikes




Does the weather concern you? If you live in an area that is known for hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, or snowstorms, the weather may be a great concern of yours. As for that concern, many are concerned with severe weather.





When it comes to severe weather, you may be wondering what you should do. What actions should you take during severe weather? If this is a question that you have asked yourself before, you will want to continue reading on. A few helpful tips and suggestions are outlined below and these helpful pointers may be able to help get you through your next bout of bad, severe weather.





As previously stated, severe weather encompasses a number of different events, such as thunderstorms, floods, hurricanes, snow storms, and tornadoes. The weather event or events that you are faced with should have a significant impact on your actions. After all, the above mentioned weather situations are ones that all need to be handled differently.





As we have seen in the past, hurricanes can be horrific and deadly. If you are faced with a hurricane, the good news is that you should have some warning. Many meteorologists are able to predict hurricanes and their intended routes at least two or three days in advance. This is nice, as many other weather events, especially tornadoes, many not give any warning at all.





If you ever find yourself in the path of a hurricane, it is important that you take action right away, even if you have a few days before landfall. Waiting until the last minute to evacuate may result in a gas shortage, as well traffic backups. Although you may only have a small or weak hurricane approaching your home, it may still be a good idea to evacuate. This is particular important if your home is located in an area that is prone to flooding or if you live along the coast.





In addition to hurricanes, another severe weather event that you may be concerned with is that of tornadoes. As previously stated, tornados can be dangerous and deadly weather events, as you often receive little or no warning at all. Although you may not know when a tornado is approaching, many meteorologists are able to predict where conditions are favorable for tornadoes. If you ever find yourself in a tornado watch or warning, you will want to take action right away.





As previously stated, you may not have much warning, if any at all, when a tornado is ready to strike. This means that you will want to prepare for a tornado as much as possible ahead of time, especially if you live in areas that are prone to them. One of the best ways to preplan for a tornado involves having a plan. This plan should include an area that you and your family can meet in the event of a tornado. This area should be a room that is enclosed, in the interior of your home, as well as one that is window free. It may also have a good idea have padding on hand, such as sofa cushions or extra blankets, to protect you from falling debris.





Another one of the many weather events that you will want to prepare for is that of flooding. What is frustrating about flooding is that it can happen in just about every area. Although specific areas are prone to flooding, you will find that others are prone to flash floods. Whether you find yourself in a slow rising flood or a flash flood, it is important that you take action right away. This action involves safely getting out of your home and to higher ground. If you suspect that your property may flood, you may want to raise your belongings or remove your valuables from your home, but don’t put yourself in danger just to so.





The above mentioned actions are just a few of the many ways that you can handle, as well as prepare for severe weather that you find yourself in the middle of. As a reminder, meteorologists are often able to predict many weather events, so listen and take into consideration any watches or warning that you may hear on the radio, read online, or see on television.


Friday, 5 October 2012

Why The Weather Should Always Impact Your Road Travel




Do you own a vehicle? If you do, you may enjoy driving. After all, driving is not only a way to get to and from work, but it is a great way to get weekly errands done. Many also use driving as a more affordable method of vacation travel, when compared to air travel. Even many individuals who do not have their own vehicles rely on the road for means of transportation, often by way of public transportation.





As previously stated, driving is a popular means of transportation. This is even the case with the relatively high price of gasoline. As reliable as your daily commute to and from work is or your weekly drive to the supermarket is, occasionally, us drivers are thrown for a loop. When this happens, it is mostly due in part to the weather.





When it comes to the weather and travel, the weather should have an important impact on your travel plans. This is important as certain weather events, such as heavy rain, wind, ice, snow, and floods, can create dangerous situations on the road. That is why you will always want to take weather into consideration before you head out onto the road, at least if you want to stay safe while out there.





As previously stated, two weather events that are known for reeking havoc on drivers is that of snow and ice. If you live in the north, you may have grow accustom to constant snow and even ice. With that in mind, even drivers in the north find themselves faced with dangerous snowstorms. If you are one of those individuals, you will want to use your best judgment. If the snow and ice on the roads is enough to close schools and some local businesses, it may be best for you to save your travel for another day, if at all possible.





Although those who live in the north are more likely to find themselves faced with snowy and icy conditions, there are instances where southern states may be impacted as well. If you are a resident in these types of areas, you are advised to proceed with caution when driving on snowy or icy roads. You and other drivers may not be familiar with these conditions; therefore, the possibility of traffic related accidents are actually quite high. Just be sure to drive slowly, take your time, and keep your eyes on the road and other drivers at all times and you should be able to safely make it to your destination.





Flooding is another weather event that should have an impact on your travels. Flooding is often referred to as the worst type of weather event to be faced with as a driver. Unlike with snow, drivers are unable to determine how much water is on the road. Although a flooded road may appear to be passable, you never know what is underneath. Road collapses, even just those that are small in nature, are common with severe flooding. Unfortunately, many of the drivers who underestimate flooding often find themselves in difficult and potentially dangerous situations.





As outlined above, there are a number of different ways that the weather can and should impact your driving. Although you may be required to be somewhere important, like work, it is important to not endanger your life when driving in poor weather conditions.


How to Find Weather Related Jobs and Careers




Are you looking for a career in meteorology or another weather related field? If you are, you may be wondering how you can go about searching for and examining open job listings. The good news it that you have a number of different options, when looking to do so.





When it comes to finding open meteorology jobs, as well as other weather related careers, you will want to pay attention to your local newspaper classified ads. This is particularly important if you live in or around a large city. Larger cities often have many nearby news stations, for both television and radio, that hire meteorologists or those with meteorology degrees. Although many newspaper job listings are short and to the point, you should be provided with a means of communication, which you can use to learn more about the job in question, such as required training and experience.





Another one of your many options, when looking for information on open and available meteorology jobs is by turning to the internet. What is nice about the using the internet to research meteorology jobs is that you have so many options. For starters, you will want to visit websites that are commonly referred to as career searching websites or job searching websites. These websites often list open jobs all across the county. You should be able to search based on your location. With that in mind, since many of these websites operate on a national level, you may be able to find the perfect meteorologist job or another weather related career if you are willing to relocate.





In keeping with using the internet, you will also want to visit the online websites for your local television and radio stations. Since many of these companies hire meteorologists, you may be able to find job listings directly on their site. Even if you have experience as a meteorologist, you may find another open station position that you can use to help you get your foot in the door. If you don’t already know the addresses for the websites of your local radio and television stations, you should easily be able to find them with a standard internet search.





As previously stated, your local television and radio stations often hire meteorologists. For that reason, you will want to listen to all radio and television news broadcasts, especially those that have a focus on careers. While many radio and television stations will use newspaper classified advertisements and the internet to publicize available job openings, many also do so in house. This advertising is free or at least it should be for the company in question.





Another approach that you can take, when looking to find a meteorologist job or another weather related job involves distributing your resume to companies that use meteorologists, like television and radio news stations. Of course, this approach does have its downsides and it is looked down on by some professionals, but you may never know what opportunities you will find. Many companies, including television and radio news stations, save all job applications and resumes that come their way. These resumes and job applications will likely later be reviewed, should a position open up.





The above mentioned approaches are just a few of the many ways that you can go about finding meteorology jobs and other weather related jobs. As a reminder, be sure to examine the National Guard or Navy, as many of these organizations often rely heavily on weather to properly function.


Thursday, 4 October 2012

Should You Have a Weather Related Career?




Are you interested in finding a new job or are you interested completely changing careers? If you are, you may want to take the time to examine weather related careers, also commonly referred to as meteorology jobs. If you enjoy the weather, whether it be researching the weather or watching it unfold in front of your eyes, a career in meteorology may be perfect for you.





As nice as it is to know that you can have a career in the field of meteorology, you may be wondering if it is right for you. After all, weather related jobs, such as positions for meteorologists, often have specific requirements, including training, on the job experience, as well as education. The decision to work in the field of meteorology is not an easy one. It is also not a decision that you can simply make overnight, especially if you do not have the proper training and education, such as a degree in meteorology. With that in mind, it is a decision that can pay off for you in the end.





One of the many signs that you may at least want to examine a weather related career is if you have a love for the weather. Are you a weather enthusiast? You may be if you regularly find yourself researching the weather. Do you always tune into the weathercasts on your local news or national news? Are you concerned with the ways that weather impacts our lives? Are you curious as to what the impact global warming can have on our weather? If you are, a weather related career may be perfect for you.





In addition to researching weather, do you like to get out and work in the field, even if just as a hobby? If you regularly find yourself outdoors examining the wind direction, wind speed, temperature, or if you enjoy checking the rainfall or snowfall totals for the day, you might. If so, you are already performing many of the job responsibilities performed by meteorologists. What does this mean? It means that you can turn a simple hobby into a professional, moneymaking opportunity.





Another one of the many reasons why a weather related career may be a good idea for you is if you are interested in making serious money. Although most weather related careers, including meteorologists, do make an average income, it is a nice steady income. It is more than possible for you to raise a family, buy a home, and vacation in popular vacation destinations, when working in a field related to weather. This is important to know, as many individuals are afraid that they will end up stuck in a dead-end job. This is something that shouldn’t be an issue when you have the proper training, schooling, and a great job.





Should you decide that a weather related career is right for you, you may be pleased with all of your options. Although we often associate weather related jobs and careers with meteorologists, it is important to remember that becoming a meteorologist isn’t your only option. Other weather related careers include working for the Armed Forces, working as a meteorology or earth science teacher, either for college or high school. You may also enjoy working as a weather writer, either on a freelance basis or a fulltime basis.





As outlined above, there are a number of reasons why you should at least consider a career in the field of meteorology, especially if weather is an issue that is of great interest to you. With that in mind, you may still be unsure about your career path. If that is the case, you may want to take the time to do a little bit of research. Researching available weather related job positions is a great way to determine if a career in meteorology is really right for you. Many job listings will outline all needed requirements, including training and education, as well as provide a detail summary of the job in question, including job responsibilities.


Wednesday, 3 October 2012

Should You Become a Storm Chaser?




Do you have a love for the weather? Do you consider yourself to be a weather fanatic or a weather enthusiast? If you regularly find yourself tracking the forecasted weather or if you find yourself outdoors when severe weather strikes, you may want to consider becoming a storm chaser. Many individuals storm chase as a hobby, as well as for a career.





As nice as it is to hear that you can make a living or enjoy a fun hobby with storm chasing, you may be looking for more information. For starters, storm chasing is defined as the pursuit of bad, severe weather. Storm chasers often hop in their vehicles and follow severe weather. As nice and as exciting as this sounds, storm chasing is a lot different than watching severe weather unfold from the safety and comfort of your own home.





Before deciding that storm chasing is the perfect career opportunity or hobby for you, there are a number of important points that you will want to take into consideration. Storm chasing often involves a lot of knowledge and research. Storm chasers rely on their knowledge of the weather, as well as severe weather alerts, and radar images to be in the right place at the right time. When it comes to the weather, do you simply just like to watch it? Would you mind sitting around examining radar images or listening to weather alerts on the radio? Although storm chasing can be exciting, it takes research, hard work, and determination to be a successful storm chaser.





Another one of the many points that you will want to take into consideration, when trying to determine if storm chasing is right for you, is your ability to quickly think on your feet. Are you good at problem solving under pressure? If you are not, storm chasing may not be for you. As exciting as storm chasing can be, it is also important to remember the dangers that surround it. When tracking super cell thunderstorms hoping to find a tornado, you may find yourself trapped. If you ever found yourself in this type of situation, you will need to not panic, but quickly think of a solution that will get you to safety and fast.





As previously stated, many professional storm chasers rely on technology and research to get them right in the middle of severe weather. Do you have the capability to do so? Storm chasing involves more than hoping in a vehicle. Do you have a television or a computer in your vehicle that you can use to access up-to-date radar images? Do you have a weather radio that will provide you with constant updates in severe weather? If not, you may want to refrain from storm chasing until you have these important tools. These weather devices will not only help to improve your chances of seeing success, but they can also help to keep you safe.





Although it is more than possible to become a solo storm chaser, it is important to know the risks and dangers associated with doing so. Storm chasers are more likely to be successful when they have a partner or even multiple partners. Professional storm chasers often have a driver, one team member who monitors the weather radio or satellite images, as well as another team member who acts as a lookout. In addition to seeing success, having another team member is likely to lessen your risk of injury, as a second or even a third set of eyes is always helpful in severe, unpredictable weather.





As outlined above, there is a lot more to storm chasing than simply hopping in your car and hitting the gas pedal. Even if you are only interested in becoming a storm chaser for personal hobby reasons, as opposed to becoming a professional storm chaser, you will still want to proceed with caution. Knowing what actions you should take and what situations you can expect to face as a storm chaser is one of the best ways to see success, as well as stay safe.


Tuesday, 2 October 2012

What Weather Watches and Warnings Mean




Have you ever been watching television or listening to the radio and have an emergency weather alert interrupt your programming? If you have, did you listen to the alert in question? If you did, what action did you take? Unfortunately, there are many individuals who mistakenly believe that weather watches and warning are weather alerts that they do not need to take seriously. For many individuals, this thinking has the potential to lead to dangerous, serious consequences.





When it comes to weather watches and weather warnings, many individuals wonder what they are. Generally speaking, weather watches, such as severe thunderstorm watches, are instances in which severe weather is likely to occur. Often times, watches cover a generalized area, such as a whole county, not just a particularly city or town. On the other hand, severe weather warnings tend to be more targeted. That is because severe weather warnings are issued when severe weather, such as a thunderstorm or tornado, is imminent. This mean the weather event in question will occur.





Now that you are more familiar with weather watches and warnings, you should also take steps to understand their importance. One of the many reasons why weather warnings go unnoticed is because of watches. As previously stated, weather watches are issued when there is a medium to high chance of severe weather. Many times, the cities and towns inside of a weather watch box do not experience any severe weather. In a way, this has desensitized many individuals. Of course, it is also possible for a simple weather watch to turn into a warning in a matter of minutes. That is why you should always listen to weather alerts, whether you see them online, on the television, or hear them on the radio.





As for what action should be taken, you will find that it all depends on the situation at hand. If you ever find yourself in the middle of a severe weather watch, such as one for a thunderstorm, winter storm, or tornado, you will want to simply keep your eyes and ears open. Examine the weather outdoors for any drastic changes and stay up-to-date on all weather alerts, as many are regularly updated in cases of extreme severe weather, such as tornados. It may also be a good idea to gather a few supplies, such as flashlight and batteries, water, and a few snacks.





As for severe weather warnings, the action that you take should all depend on the weather event in question. This is important as flash flood, tornadoes, snow and ice storms, as well as hurricanes should all be handled differently. In the event that you find yourself in the middle of a tornado warning, it is advised that you either retreat to your basement or a safe interior and window free room in your home. As for severe thunderstorms, it is important that you stay away from all windows and have emergency backup lights and heat, just in case of a power outage. The same can be said for snow and ice storms; you will want to plan to be stranded inside of your home, possibly even for days.





In keeping with the actions that you should take during a severe weather warning, it is important to pay attention to all hurricane warnings. We have seen in the past just how horrific hurricanes can be. They pose an enormous amount of danger, even when you prepare for them. A hurricane warning may call for an evacuation. The same can be said for flooding. If you are able to safely get out of your home during a flood, you will want to do so.





As outlined above, it is important to that you carefully listen to all severe weather watches and warnings that may be issued in your area. This is particularly the case in weather events that have the ability to become natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornadoes. To stay up-to-date with the weather in your area, especially during severe weather, you will want to have a battery operated weather radio on hand at all times.


How to Find Weather Related Information Online




Are you a weather fanatic or a weather enthusiast? If you are, you may always be on the lookout for information about the weather. You may be wondering when severe weather will next strike your area or you may be looking for fun, affordable, and easy ways to track the weather from your own home. If you are, you will want to turn to the interenet.





When it comes to using the internet, as previously stated, you have a number of different options. In all honesty, the approaches that you should take should depend on what you are looking for. For specific tips on how to find weather related information online, please continue reading on.





If you are interested in staying up-to-date with what is happening with your weather locally, you will want to visit the online websites of your local news and radio stations. Many of these websites will have updated radar images, as well as information the current weather and the extended weather forecast. In the event of severe weather, your local news channels should post all weather alerts online. You may also want to visit the online websites for national news and weather agencies, like the website for The Weather Channel.





If you love learning more about the weather or tracking it, you may be interested in having a weather related career. You can not only use the internet to learn more about weather related jobs, but you can also use the internet to examine open positions. If you are just getting started, you may first want to consider obtaining a degree in meteorology, as many organizations require this schooling. The good news is that this can be done online as well. You can research colleges that have meteorology programs and classes available for taking.





Even if you do not want to have a career in a weather related field, like meteorology, you may still be interested in participating in weather related activities, as a hobby. If you are looking for weather devices that are for sale or if you are looking for tips on how you can easily and accurately track the weather, like the speed and the direction of the wind, you can do so online. There are a number of professional weather related websites, which may have scientific articles, as well as great ideas for beginners who are interested in weather tracking. These websites may not only contain detailed descriptions and other weather related articles, but you may also find how-to videos and detailed pictures.





As outlined above, there are a number of different ways that you can use the internet to help you learn more about the weather. Whether you are looking for information on the impacts global warming may have on the weather or if you simply want to know the local weather forecast will be, you have an unlimited number of different options. To find this information, perform a standard internet search.





Although the internet is a nice way to learn more about the weather and important weather related issues and topics, it is important to remember that you do have other options. These other options may involve using television, documentaries, and printed resources, such as magazines or books. These options are nice if you do not have internet access. With that in mind, even if you do not have internet access at home, you should be able to use a computer at a public library.


Monday, 1 October 2012

Weather and Global Warming




Do you use the internet, watch television, or listen to the radio? If you do, you have likely heard of global warming before. In recent years, global warming has been a topic that has increased in popularity. Although global warming is a theory that is widely debated, it may still be of great concern to you.





When it comes to global warming, there are many individuals who wonder about the affects it will have on the planet. More specifically, many are wondering how global warming will impact our weather. If this is a concern of yours, you will want to continue reading on.





Before focusing on ways that global warming may impact the planet and its weather, it is important to know what global warming is. Global warming is the phrase that is used to describe the gradual warming of the planet. This rise in temperature is due in part to greenhouse gases. Due to the phrase “global warming,” many individuals automatically assume that our temperatures will become hotter. While this will ring true in some cases, the phrase “global warming,” can also be a little bit misleading.





When it comes to global warming, the rise in temperatures, due to green house gases, gradually raises the earth’s temperature. Although this temperature rise will result in the melting of land masses of ice and snow and it may result in multiple droughts, that is not all that you will see. Global warming, according to many, creates instability in our weather. Yes, one area may see droughts due to global warming, but on the other side of the world, another area may see record breaking flooding. The same can be said for cold and warm temperatures.





As previously stated, global warming is a topic that is surrounded by a lot of debate. Perhaps, this is due in part to its name. As previously stated, the phrase “global warming,” can be misleading, at least in terms of temperature. If you are looking for more information on global warming, as well as the affects it may have on the environment, you will find that you have a number of different options. For starters, you may want to turn to the internet.





When using the internet to learn more about global warming and the influences it can have on our weather, you will want to perform a standard internet search. When doing so, it may be a good idea to search with the phrase “global warming and the weather,” or another similar phrase. Your internet search is likely to lead you to online research websites. These websites are ones that often tend to compile reports and graphs from meteorologists and other scientists.





In addition to using the internet to learn more about global warming and the weather, you may want to turn to your television. As the debate on global warming continues to grow, you are likely to see more television programs and newscast that cover global warming. You can also rent or buy DVDs that cover the issue of global warming, such as Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth documentary.



As outlined above, global warming will have an impact on the weather. While the biggest impact may not be seen for years to come, you are likely to notice small changes in the weather right now. These changes may be erratic temperatures or weather storms with stronger intensities.