On television news programs, weathercasters predict the weather and forecast their predictions. They usually need a meteorology degree and the ability to interpret weather conditions using radar and tower cameras (cams). For reporting to viewers, a television weathercaster must prepare daily and/or weekly forecasts in a spoken format that fits his or her given broadcast time slot.
Weathercasters are constantly using their own and/or a television station’s computer to track weather trends and conditions. They use software that not only delivers weather conditions and camera images, but also incorporates atmospheric science physics and differential equations. A weathercaster’s job entails keeping up with computer “bugs” and updates on a regular basis, as new weather-predicting technology is constantly being developed.
To be ready for his or her segment, a weathercaster must arrive at the television station well ahead of the news broadcast. Most weathercasters use a pointer or their hand to indicate conditions that are moving into each geographic area while standing in front of maps and other weather graphics. A newscaster’s job is to make weather reports and updates relevant to what the news program’s viewers want to know. In the winter, the forecaster is more likely to focus on how much snow is expected or how icy the roads will be, whereas in the summer, heat warnings and the need for sun protection are more important.
A weathercaster is responsible for adhering to the television station’s dress code, tone of presentation, and other policies. Some weather forecasters dress casually or even humorously, joking lightheartedly throughout their segment, while others dress in business suits and present in a more matter-of-fact manner. Forecasters are usually introduced by the anchor people because many weather segments are done near the end of the news program. Many television stations encourage the anchors and weathercasters to have a friendly on-air rapport, so there may be a brief segue between them right before the weather forecast segment.
The anchor desk, for example, might raise the issue of possible weather conditions if the newscasters were reporting on a parade scheduled for the next day. The weathercaster’s job would then be to make the transition from what the anchorperson said to the weather segment. Viewers will find this type of segue, or transition, between two different segments of the newscast to be seamless and cohesive. While most weathercasters have a set time slot at the television station for their segment, some are also assigned to cover community events such as fairs or outdoor sports games in addition to weather forecasting.