Met Office - Who we are and what we do

Met Office is the national meteorological service for the UK, providing critical weather services and world-leading climate science.

Met Office Services Operations Centre (2021-06-16) by Met OfficeMet Office

Global leaders in weather and climate

Since our foundation in 1854, we have pioneered the science of meteorology and its application to deliver extraordinary impact and benefit. 

To this day, we continue to push the boundaries of science and technology, so that we can meet the demands of today and the future.

Alex Deakin and Aidan McGivern, Met Office Presenters during a Weather Studio Live eventMet Office

Excellent people and culture

Our team of weather and climate experts play a critical role in interpreting our data, turning this into insight and advice that, in extreme circumstances, saves lives. Without them, what we do just wouldn't be possible.

UK extreme heat warnings summer 2022 by Met OfficeMet Office

A focus on accuracy

It is essential that our weather warnings and forecasts are accurate and trusted.

We have high standards and are constantly working to remain top operational provider in the world for accuracy and trusted by at least 80% of the public to provide weather and climate services.

Met Office Cray Super Computer (2020-12-23) by Met OfficeMet Office

Exceptional science, technology, engineering and operations

We have earned a reputation for continually pushing the boundaries of scientific, technological and operational expertise.

Our supercomputer and investment in data science, machine learning and artificial intelligence will help us meet the challenges of the future.

Meet some of our people

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts’ is certainly true when it comes to all the great people that work to make the Met Office a global leader in weather and climate science. Discover more about their roles in this playlist.

Storm Ciara radar 0600 (2020-02-09) by Met OfficeMet Office

Public Weather Service

We provide weather information and severe weather warnings to help UK government, businesses, emergency responders and the public to make informed decisions. 

As well as our public weather services, our partnerships contribute to science and research all over the world.

Weather warning shown on screenMet Office

Our role in supporting UK citizens

On behalf of UK citizens at home and abroad, the Met Office is required to provide accurate warnings of severe weather and seamless, timely and accurate weather forecasts. Forecasts will cover the whole of the UK, including  mountains, islands, and coastal areas.

By Tony LinckLIFE Photo Collection

Support to UK Government

We provide objective and impartial information to parliamentarians and their offices across the UK.

This includes presenting evidence to a wide range of parliamentary committees, especially around severe weather events, climate change, and planning for the future. 

Person pointing at mapMet Office

Collaboration

We work in partnership with a wide variety of organisations in the UK and around the world.

These range from research collaborations, to international partnerships and life-saving work with critical services to maximise the impact of our skills, expertise and resources.

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more
Related theme
Met Office
Demystifying the science behind the weather and why it matters
View theme
Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites