Weather Watch –Bringing the science of meteorology into entertaining web programming

In 2012, Weather Watch was introduced as a creative outlet for meteorology majors seeking careers in the field of broadcasting. The goal of this program is to expose the science of meteorology and produce an informative yet entertaining program for all audiences. The show is entirely produced by students; each taking roles in the many facets necessary to deliver a quality web-program. Meteorology aside, Weather Watch works as a great vehicle for introducing students to the rigors and methods behind producing a full length program. Students are tasked with learning the ins-and-outs of camera operation, script writing, on-screen presentation, and non-linear video editing. Many students present themselves with no formal training but learn through a series of peer seminars taught by senior members of the Weather Watch crew – making Weather Watch a truly unique, student-oriented, peer-mentored process. In its first season, Weather Watch has brought a plethora of great weather information to over 2000 viewers in nearly 30 countries. Topics covered range from storm retrospectives and climatological reviews, to peaks inside the inner-workings of the field of meteorology, including tours of the National Weather Service radar and the Accu-Weather headquarters. Weather Watch also brings important weather information to its viewers in the form of entertaining public service announcements. These range from severe weather preparedness to the debunking of common weather myths. In total, the Weather Watch cast and crew has grown to nearly 30 members in its first season. The program provides a fantastic opportunity to students who may have never had the chance to experience broadcasting. Weather Watch can be viewed at the web site: www.muweatherwatch.com.