Today, we take seven day forecasts for granted. It takes a lot of technology to make that happen. Satellites, numerical weather prediction models and world-wide weather observations. None of that existed in 1943 as Allied military commanders gathered to plan the invasion of Europe. In fact, a forecast for more than twenty four hours in advance was laughable. But Allied meteorologists, including the famed Sverre Pettersen thought they knew better.
The first decision was what time of year to stage the invasion. Examination of historical weather records indicated that the best odds for favorable conditions would exist in June. A preliminary date of May 31st was chosen by meteorologists in conjunction with military leaders. Weather conditions would determine the actual date for the invasion.
A joint Allied meteorological team consisting of British and American forecasters was established in April 1944 with orders to begin creating trial forecasts for the invasion. On this date, the forecasters made their first official presentation of a five day forecast to the Allied Commanders. A correct weather forecast would be critical to the success of the invasion.
A period of calm weather was what the commanders were looking for. They got it in May, but it was not time. Early June started off stormy. Forecasters saw an opportunity for good weather on June 6th. The recommendation was made to General Eisenhower. He agreed. It turned out to be a perfect forecast.
Thank goodness!
The first decision was what time of year to stage the invasion. Examination of historical weather records indicated that the best odds for favorable conditions would exist in June. A preliminary date of May 31st was chosen by meteorologists in conjunction with military leaders. Weather conditions would determine the actual date for the invasion.
A joint Allied meteorological team consisting of British and American forecasters was established in April 1944 with orders to begin creating trial forecasts for the invasion. On this date, the forecasters made their first official presentation of a five day forecast to the Allied Commanders. A correct weather forecast would be critical to the success of the invasion.
A period of calm weather was what the commanders were looking for. They got it in May, but it was not time. Early June started off stormy. Forecasters saw an opportunity for good weather on June 6th. The recommendation was made to General Eisenhower. He agreed. It turned out to be a perfect forecast.
Thank goodness!