Weather observers record weather conditions every day at scheduled times, compile the information into meteorological messages according to international codes and transmit it to different centres.
They measure temperature changes, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed and wind direction twice a day. Precision instruments are used to make the observations and the weather observers must keep these instruments in excellent working condition.
The nature of the services rendered by the Weather Bureau makes it necessary to conduct observations 24 hours a day. Weather observers therefore have to work shifts.
Satisfying Aspects
- working both indoors and outdoors
- the challenge of always making observations at precisely the same time.
Demanding aspects
- working shifts and long hours when instruments are faulty
- boredom with routine tasks
- working in adverse weather conditions
Requirements
A weather observer should:
- be reliable;
- work carefully and accurately;
- have scientific knowledge;
- be willing to do routine work.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Geography
Training
The Weather Bureau offers practical in-service training, which includes:
- learning about surface observations, upper-air observations
- maintenance of meteorological instruments
- automatic weather stations
- climatic data
- inspections of climatic stations
Employer
- The Weather Bureau which is a section of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
Contact
Weather Bureau, Dept of Environmental Affairs
Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
Tel: (012) 310-3661
Fax: (012) 322-0082
E-mail: nlevin@ozone.pwv.gov.za
www.environment.gov.za