History of Weather in Timeline

Weather describes the atmosphere's condition at a particular time and location, encompassing factors like temperature, humidity, cloud cover, and stability. Most weather occurs in the troposphere, the lowest atmospheric layer. It represents short-term atmospheric conditions, contrasting with climate, which reflects long-term averages. The term 'weather' typically refers to Earth's weather unless otherwise specified.

September 1922: Hottest Air Temperature Recorded

On September 13, 1922, the hottest air temperature was recorded at ʽAziziya, Libya with 57.7 °C (135.9 °F), but the WMO later deemed the reading illegitimate.

July 1983: Coldest Air Temperature Recorded

On July 21, 1983, the coldest air temperature ever recorded on Earth was measured at Vostok Station, Antarctica, reaching −89.2 °C (−128.6 °F).

2007: Discovery of Strongest Planetary Winds

In 2007, the strongest planetary winds were discovered on the extrasolar planet HD 189733 b, with easterly winds moving at more than 9,600 kilometers per hour (6,000 mph).

August 2008: China's Weather Control for the Olympic Games

In August 2008, China implemented weather control measures for the Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. On August 8, 2008, 1,104 rain dispersal rockets were launched to prevent rain during the opening ceremony, successfully causing rainfall in nearby areas.

2011: Tropical Weather Forecasting Challenges

In 2011, Stevens highlighted that the sun shines more directly on the tropics, making them warmer. The earth's rotation influences atmospheric circulation more strongly at high latitudes than low latitudes. As a result, clouds and rainstorms are more difficult to forecast in the tropics.

2019: Tornado Fatalities and Damage Costs

In 2019, tornadoes in the United States had a significant impact, causing 42 fatalities and resulting in over 3 billion dollars in crop and property damage.