John Coates-Greetham discusses the role of forensic meteorology experts in interpreting weather records and applying them in civil and criminal cases
The forensic meteorologist carries out an investigation into the weather over a few hours, days, or even, on occasions, months or years.
So, why do the courts need an expert in meteorology?
Although meteorology is an everyday science, in that almost everyone understands the terms fog, snow, rain, hail, and so forth, the forensic meteorologist is required to examine weather records and offer an opinion based on the minutiae of the science. This almost always involves preparing the equivalent of a weather forecast or backcast. The meteorologist is required to explain to the court why, when, and where the weather occurred and how it affected the inciden...
