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Cornell's Pioneering Role in Weather Forecasting

Staff Report / FLXlocal.org

**Cornell Signal Station and the Beginnings of Weather Forecasting**

Cornell University played an important role in the early development of weather forecasting systems in the United States. After the invention and success of the electric telegraph—partly thanks to the efforts of Ezra Cornell—meteorological conditions could be reported with unprecedented speed across long distances, paving the way for modern weather forecasting.

Despite the advancements, efforts to secure federal support for meteorological work at Cornell were not successful. In response, Estevan Fuertes, a professor of civil engineering, took the initiative to begin collecting local weather data in 1873.

In 1879, a university signal station was established at the approximate location where Uris Library stands today. The station used an innovative method to convey weather forecasts to the public. Large signal balls were raised on a 112-foot pole, with the number and position of the balls indicating the forecast for the day. This creative system allowed people on and around the campus to learn about upcoming weather conditions.

Cornell's early weather broadcast system reflects the university's commitment to innovation and problem-solving during a time when rapid communication methods were still being developed. The work done at the Cornell signal station marked an important chapter in the history of meteorological science.

For more historical insights into Cornell's role in weather broadcasting and forecasting, visit the resource shared by Cornell University at [Cornell Alumni](https://alumni.cornell.edu/cornellians/earle-weather/).

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Jan 15, 2025 at 8:30 AM

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