The Department

The renowned Greek philosophers penned a number of scientific treatises in the 4th century B.C., including the first major study of the atmosphere (Meteorologic). The word "meteorologist," came from Greek word meteorol that refers to something, which occurs high in the sky. At the beginning of the twentieth century, meteorology began to take more rapid scientific strides. During the latter half of the century those strides accelerated to an all-out sprint spurred on by a tidal wave of new technology. Most academic programs in meteorology were established during the 1950s and 1960s. During that period the discipline experienced rapid growth, which has continued into the present era. Numerical weather prediction (NWP) models rode the crest of the wave.

Many advances in meteorology can be attributed to breakthroughs in related areas of mathematics, physics, engineering, and technology. Historically, meteorologists have been at the forefront in the use of computers for data handling, modeling, data analysis, and the graphical display of results. Because of the collection and analysis of a vast amount of data from around the world and the numerical simulation of meteorological and climatological processes, supercomputers and the latest advanced mathematical techniques are an integral part of the science of the atmosphere. In addition, the space technology has made available a unique platform high up in space which provides us with means of looking at our planet with new EYES and listen with new EARS. Thus, space research which began as an exploratory endeavor has provided a natural way for evolution in science and technology in which new opportunities are exploited and new capabilities are developed.

We in Pakistan despite fully recognizing the potential applications of meteorological science have not been able to make much headway. This is the time, having made a start in this field, to focus our attention on meteorological science and its significance to Pakistan and to make sincere and serious efforts for the growth and advancement of education and research in this field.