MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Meteorology and oceanography analyst forecasters spend 24 hours a day reviewing air pressure, cross winds, high winds, upcoming thunderstorm possibilities and other crucial weather conditions that play a vital role in the outcome of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing’s missions.

As the only natural-science-based military occupational specialty within the Marine Corps, METOC forecasters serve a unique purpose.

Forecasters are responsible for observing and reporting all weather patterns spanning the entire route an aircraft takes during flight. METOC Marines analyze every aspect, ranging from temperature to wind patterns to prevent safety hazards.

Elevation, humidity, turbulence, icing and a variety of other factors for not only Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., but bases across the country are included in 24-hour forecasts known as Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts. Analysts distribute TAFs every six hours throughout the 3rd MAW to ensure up-to-date information is seen by squadrons.

“[Our office] provides aviation weather forecast and support for all bases and air stations throughout Marine Corps Installations West,” said Sgt. Jessica N. Kruppa, a weather forecaster with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron and a Clover, S.C., native. “This weather support and analysis is vital for planning ground support missions, rescue missions and training operations. We also issue warnings and advisories so Marines are safe during both training and flights.”

Every element of a weather report is essential in preventing safety hazards during flight. For example, without knowing moisture content, an aircraft may experience icing, the accumulation of ice on an aircraft, as it passes through clouds.

Weather is essential for mission completion. It allows Marines to know operation capabilities as well as those of an enemy, explained Sgt. Nate D. Kramer, a forecaster with H&HS and a Jasper, Ind., native.

Analysis forecasters also report weather pattern histories for specific regions in monthly climatology briefs.

Due to the constant observation of weather patterns and forecasts “pilots are able to make sound decisions on safety during their missions,” explained Kruppa.