Observe the Weather Day Date in the current year: January 25, 2025

People have been observing the weather since the beginning of human civilization. In early times, they noted the color of the sky, cloud patterns, animal behavior, seasonal changes, and other patterns to make basic predictions. These weather observations are often reflected in folklore in the form of sayings, such as “Red sky at night, shepherd’s delight”: a red sky at sunset or sunrise typically means good weather.

Ancient civilizations (Greek, Roman, Chinese, Indian, etc.) saw the emergence of meteorology as scholars began to record weather observations and attempt to systematize and explain weather patterns. During the Middle Ages, monasteries became centers of systematic weather observation in Europe.

A breakthrough in weather observation came during the Renaissance when the first instruments for quantitative weather measurement were invented, such as the barometer for measuring atmospheric pressure and the thermoscope (predecessor of the thermometer) for showing changes in temperature.

The development of modern meteorology began in the early 19th century, when the invention of the electric telegraph made it possible to receive almost instantaneous reports of weather conditions over large areas and use them to make weather forecasts. Today, meteorologists use many different methods to make forecasts, but weather observations remain the primary source of weather data.

Professional weather observers use specialized equipment to collect, record and map weather conditions, working in shifts around the clock to ensure that weather conditions are monitored at all times. And some people observe weather as a hobby because they are fascinated by it and want to learn more about the world we live in. There is a variety of resources and tools available to amateur weather watchers, from weather data websites to personal weather stations.

The origins of Observe the Weather Day are unclear, but it has been celebrated since at least 2012. It was created to highlight the role of weather observations in forecasting and to promote weather observation as a cool hobby.

You can celebrate the holiday by learning interesting facts about weather and climate and sharing them with anyone who’s willing to listen, getting outside and observing the weather (or doing it from the safety and comfort of your home if the weather isn’t particularly nice), organizing an Observe the Weather Day event in your community, and promoting the holiday on social media with the hashtag #ObserveTheWeatherDay.

Observe the Weather Day isn’t the only holiday for those who enjoy watching and observing the weather. There’s also National Weather Observers Day, which is celebrated on May 4. Another similar holiday is Skywarn® Recognition Day, which honors volunteer storm spotters who help the National Weather Service track severe weather. It is observed on the first Saturday in December.