Today is National Weatherperson’s Day in the United States. Observed annually, it is a day to recognize the work of all individuals involved in the field of meteorology – not just famous prognosticating groundhogs.

According to the NWS, February 5, 1744 was the birthday of Dr. John Jeffries – one of America’s first weather observers.  As a Boston based physician with a deep interest in weather, he kept daily records from 1774 to 1816.  He also took the first known weather observation from a hot air balloon in 1784.

Recognizing the significant contributions Dr. Jeffries made to the science of weather, this day was chosen in his honor.