National Weatherperson's Day, also known as National Weatherman's Day, is a holiday observed on February 5 primarily in the United States. It recognizes individuals in the fields of meteorology, weather forecasting and broadcast meteorology - including the folks who watch over the quality of the air we breathe - as well as volunteer storm spotters and observers. National Weatherperson's Day is observed on the birthday of John Jeffries, one of the United States' first weather observers who took daily measurements from 1774 to 1816.

My fascination, passion, excitement (and possible obsession) with all things weather began when I was in my mother’s womb. Since I was a youngster, I remember loving the smell of rain, gazing at the different sizes and shapes of clouds and touching and tasting white snow…okay, maybe I am obsessed.  However, I am truly blessed to have been able to turn this lifelong passion into a rewarding career as a meteorologist.

It’s often said that people are most fearful of what they don’t understand.  There was a time in my life when the deep growls of thunder and the sound of a tornado siren would send chills up my spine. But as I grew older, fueled by my passion and curiosity, I delved deeper and deeper into understanding the physical processes of our atmosphere. Though we have a good handle on the principles and properties of our atmosphere, there is still plenty of room for growth and further research to figure out exactly how different elements of our environment marry to create the weather we experience.

Being a meteorologist on television comes with a hefty responsibility. People look to meteorologists for a variety of things, from insight into significant earth science events to accurate forecasting on the day of a big outdoor weekend to, most importantly, guidance during severe weather.

My primary responsibility as a meteorologist on television is to protect the lives and property of my viewers. Before you head out the door and hit the roads, you need to know what kind of weather to expect so you are ready for your commute to and from work. It’s my goal to help you plan and prepare for your day.

Part of that includes distributing Smog Alerts when air quality reaches hazardous levels for groups of people. Thankfully that does not happen too often in my part of the state, and I support our friends at The Clean Air Campaign to keep it that way. They do a great job promoting the use of commute alternatives throughout Georgia so you can enjoy cleaner air and less traffic.

The field of meteorology is continuously evolving. Though I suppose the average person thinks of a meteorologist as the guy on the local news, there are actually many opportunities in weather forecasting outside of television, including both the private and government sectors.

If weather is your passion, pursue it!  The sky is the limit!

Michael Estime is the chief meteorologist for 41 NBC / WMGT-TV in Macon, Ga.