Royal Mail Unveils Stunning Stamps Celebrating Our National Obsession: The Weather

It's a national obsession the British are known for around the world – our fascination with the weather – and today, Royal Mail reveal images that pay tribute to the perennial conversation starter. A set of eight Special Stamps celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Met Office and the history, science, and future of Weather Forecasting.

Featuring beautiful composite images, the stamps showcase advances in weather forecasting over the last two centuries, including the Terra Nova Expedition to Antarctica, establishment of the iconic Shipping Forecast in 1924, forecasting's critical role in military operations such as D-Day and Barbara Edwards, the first British female TV weather presenter.

Exploring the Development of Weather Forecasting

The set of stamps illustrates the following developments in forecasting:

• Luke Howard, pioneer meteorologist, who classified clouds in 1803
• Storm barometer of Robert FitzRoy, who founded what is now the Met Office, in 1854
• Terra Nova Expedition, which studied extreme weather in 1910–12
• Marine buoys, which collect data for the Shipping Forecast, which was first broadcast via Morse code in 1925 and first heard on the BBC in 1925.
• Weather observers during the Second World War, who were vital to the success of the D-Day invasion in 1944, among other military operations
• Radar and computers, which improved forecasting accuracy from the 1950s onwards
• Barbara Edwards, who became the first British female TV weather presenter in 1974
• Supercomputers and satellites, which help track the Earth's weather today

Detailed and visually stunning, the stamps take us on a journey through the rich history of weather forecasting, highlighting the incredible progress made in understanding and predicting weather patterns. From the pioneering efforts of meteorologists to the technological advancements of today, these stamps capture the fascinating story of our ongoing obsession with the weather.

From Ancient Predictions to Modern Precision

Two centuries ago, people had little understanding of weather. They gleaned clues from nature when they could, but mostly they considered the skies to be a chaotic space beyond human control. Things began to change in the early 19th century. Luke Howard, a London pharmacist, published a booklet outlining his system for naming clouds in 1803, a revolutionary step that laid the foundation for modern meteorology.

As scientific understanding grew, so did the need for a dedicated institution to study and predict the weather. In 1854, Robert FitzRoy established what is now known as the Met Office. Armed with a storm barometer and the electric telegraph, FitzRoy issued some of the world's first storm warnings and forecasts.

Weather forecasting proved vital during significant historical events. The Terra Nova Expedition, led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott in 1910, aimed to study extreme weather conditions in Antarctica. This expedition provided valuable insights into weather patterns and their impact on human survival.

The stamps also celebrate the pivotal role of weather forecasting in military operations, particularly during World War II. Weather observers played a crucial part in planning the D-Day invasion in 1944, ensuring that the weather conditions were suitable for a successful landing.

Advancements in technology revolutionized weather forecasting in the latter half of the 20th century. From the introduction of radar and computers in the 1950s to the use of supercomputers and satellites today, these tools have significantly enhanced our ability to track and predict weather patterns with greater precision.

Capturing the Spirit of the British Nation

The British love to talk about the weather. It's an integral part of our culture and daily conversations. From fishermen planning their expeditions to farmers deciding when to harvest, weather forecasts play a crucial role in various aspects of our lives. These stamps pay homage to the people and the science behind the weather forecast, celebrating their contributions in keeping us informed and safe.

David Gold, Director of External Affairs and Policy at Royal Mail, expressed the sentiment behind the stamps, saying, "The British love to talk about the weather. It is a national obsession. Whether we are fishermen heading out to sea, farmers planning the harvest, or staycationers worried about losing our tent to the winds, people of all ages want to know whether it will be sunny or wet, hot or cold. These stamps celebrate the people and the science behind the weather forecast."

Professor Penny Endersby CBE, Chief Executive of the Met Office, highlighted the importance of the Met Office's role in UK history, stating, "As an island nation, we are often at the mercy of the weather, and our role is to help people stay safe and thrive in every corner of the UK and beyond. As these beautiful stamps demonstrate, the Met Office has constantly evolved from our roots at the pioneering edge of weather forecasting through to technical innovations of the modern era."

A Tribute to a Trailblazer

One of the stamps pays tribute to Barbara Edwards, the first British female TV weather presenter. Edwards made history in 1974 by breaking barriers and becoming a prominent figure in broadcast meteorology. Her dedication to delivering accurate and informative weather forecasts paved the way for many future female meteorologists, including Claire Martin, Edwards' niece and former Canadian weather presenter. Martin expressed her excitement and pride in seeing her aunt honored with a Royal Mail stamp, highlighting the impact Edwards had on her own career.

Collectible Products

The eight stamps are available to pre-order from the Royal Mail website and by telephone. In addition to the stamps, a range of collectible products, including a Presentation Pack featuring all eight stamps, is available. These collectibles provide weather enthusiasts and stamp collectors alike with a unique and tangible piece of meteorological history.

Don't miss your chance to own a piece of British weather heritage. Place your pre-order now to secure these exquisite stamps and celebrate our enduring national obsession with the weather.