Meteorologist Mike Leshniak shows us that in 1954 the National Weather Service was the backbone of the forecasts every night.
As WBOC-TV celebrates its 70th anniversary, this is a good time to reflect on the evolution of weather forecasting and the significant changes it has seen over the decades. From humble beginnings relying on basic gadgets to the cutting-edge technology available to us today, the journey of weather viewing has been nothing short of remarkable.
In the early days of television weather reports, in 1954, the National Weather Service was the primary source for nightly weather forecasts.
At that time, weather forecasts were a far cry from the detailed, real-time updates we enjoy today. Before the advent of modern technology, meteorologists relied on primitive tools and manual methods to collect data. For example, radar systems didn't debut until 1959, thanks to donations from the military after World War II.
Eric Seymour of the National Weather Service remembers a time when weather data was obtained by teleprinter, with notes taken at airports and transmitted by hand. This painstaking process meant that forecasts were limited in accuracy and scope, usually spanning only one day, if so.
In the early 1950s, weather forecasters, not meteorologists, were making forecasts. These presenters will contact weather bureau meteorologists to obtain details of the weather map for the day. The interaction was often broadcast live, adding an element of spontaneity to the presentation.
Fast forward to the present day, and the field of weather forecasting has been revolutionized. Advanced technologies such as radar, satellite imaging, and computer models provide meteorologists with unprecedented insights into weather patterns. Through the WBOC Weather App, sponsored by Hertrich, viewers can easily access the latest weather forecasts, reflecting the integration of technology into our daily lives.
Furthermore, the deployment of weather satellites has played a pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of weather systems. From the launch of the first satellite in 1960, which transmitted images intermittently, to today's GOES satellites, which transmit high-resolution images every minute, progress has been astonishing. Now, anyone can access these images the moment they are returned to Earth, providing individuals with valuable information for planning and decision-making.
As we celebrate seven decades of WBOC-TV, it's clear that while weather forecasting methods have evolved dramatically, one thing remains constant: the unpredictable nature of Delmarva weather. So, if you find yourself unhappy with the forecast, just remember that weather changes in Delmarva are as inevitable as they are unpredictable.
