Forensic Weather
Forensic Weather Services: Expert Analysis in a Changing Climate
As extreme weather becomes the new normal, forensic weather analysis is more critical than ever. With the surge in weather-related insurance claims and general disruptions, businesses and legal professionals are turning to forensic weather experts to understand how severe weather impacts assets and operations. In 2023 alone, the U.S. faced 28 billion-dollar weather and climate disasters, setting a record for the highest number of such events in a single year.
Our team of certified meteorologists specializes in forensic weather services, delivering in-depth reports and expert testimony. Utilizing the latest meteorological data and advanced analytical tools, we reconstruct weather events to provide a comprehensive understanding of past conditions. Our ability to examine scenarios from multiple perspectives, combined with extensive knowledge of available databases and meticulous attention to detail, distinguishes us in the field. Whether you require detailed written reports, authoritative courtroom testimony, or high-quality forensic weather video presentations, our services offer accurate and reliable analyses tailored to your specific needs.
With decades of experience in forensic weather, we provide expert insight with a high degree of meteorological certainty, helping you navigate complex insurance claims, litigation, or investigations. Trust our forensic weather expertise to deliver the clarity and precision you need.
Why Choose Praedictix?
- Proven Track Record: Served as weather experts in hundreds of successful cases.
- Expert Team: All data is analyzed by veteran meteorologists with extensive forensic experience.
- Accurate Data: Rigorous data verification processes ensure the highest accuracy in our hail reports.
- Thorough Analysis: Our ability to “read between the lines” is unparalleled. Unlike automated hail reports, a human meteorologist will review all points of data and connect the dots.
- Client Satisfaction: The majority of our clients win their case or reach a satisfying settlement. Additionally, we believe in lasting relationships. We are proud to have many return clients that we have worked with for many years.
What is Forensic Weather Analysis?
Forensic weather is the practice of analyzing historical weather data to assist in determining facts in a legal or potentially legal matter. When facing a lawsuit tied to weather, like a car crash on a rainy night or an insurance dispute over storm damage, this field studies what kind of weather was occurring leading up to and during the event, or “Time of Loss.” Often forensic analysis is needed to avoid litigation entirely.
Our team of meteorologists become “weather detectives” and utilize their expertise to reconstruct historical weather occurrences using a wide breadth of historical weather data. We often act as expert witnesses, which may entail testifying in court. Our analyses and expertise have aided in settling many personal injury claims, insurance disputes, and more.
Do I need a Forensic Weather Expert?
In forensic weather, expert analysis by a trained meteorologist is the foundation of any sound investigation. Whether in court or with an insurance company, the demand is the same—facts that stand the test of scrutiny. You don’t just want a cursory look from a weather app or algorithm-generated summary.
The truth is weather is not black and white. No app in the world can compete with a trained meteorologist who is able to “read between the lines.” Weather data sets are complex and plentiful—from radar and satellite imagery to weather observations and upper level atmospheric analysis. A true weather expert is experienced in sourcing all relevant weather data and is able to provide deep, insightful analysis of said data. A forensic meteorologist should have years of experience in weather consulting and weather analysis and is able to contextualize past weather events. Additionally, an experienced forensic weather expert will have had experience on the stand and be able to defend their findings and position.
Credible Testimony Strengthens Cases
A good expert witness is much more than a scientist–they are to carry themselves with confidence and be a trusted voice in the room. Breaking down complex weather-related evidence relies on exemplary communication skill. There are times when an expert goes head-to-head with another expert and should be well prepared to defend their position and findings. In a legal matter, extensive planning and discussion with a client is needed to ensure that the information presented is not only scientifically accurate but beneficial.
I Need Forensic Weather
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is forensic meteorologist?
A forensic meteorologist is a trained weather expert who reconstructs and analyzes past weather conditions to determine what occurred at a specific time and place. Their work is often used in legal cases, insurance claims, and investigations involving weather-related incidents such as hail damage, flooding, slip and fall injuries, accidents, and storm-related losses. Forensic meteorologists use radar data, surface observations, satellite imagery, official weather reports, and many other data to provide scientifically accurate assessments. They may also serve as expert witnesses in court, testifying how weather contributed to an event.
Inquire today about seeing our CVs and Fee Schedule!
How long does it take to receive a forensic weather report?
Turnaround time depends on the complexity of the case and caseload, but many reports can be delivered within 1-2 weeks. Expedited service is available for urgent legal deadlines.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends so much on the kind of analysis required and the degree of complexity. Once there is a clear understanding of scope, our forensic meteorologist will provide an estimate along with their CV and Fee Schedule before formally engaging.
What types of cases require forensic weather analysis?
Our forensic meteorologists assist in a wide range of cases, including:
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Slip and fall
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Hail and wind damage disputes
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Vehicular accidents related to weather
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Flooding
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Force majeure and business interruption
What geographic areas do you cover?
Yes, forensic meteorologists can travel as needed for site investigations, depositions, or courtroom testimony. While most forensic weather analyses are completed remotely using radar, satellite data, and archived observations, some cases may benefit from an on-site visits. The majority of our clients are based in the United States. While we primarily provide forensic weather services nationwide, we can reconstruct the weather story for any location using our meteorological expertise.
Do you travel?
Yes, our forensic meteorologists can travel as needed for site investigations, depositions, or courtroom testimony. While most forensic weather analyses are completed remotely using radar, satellite data, and archived observations, some cases may benefit from an on-site visit. At Praedictix, our expert meteorologists are available to travel nationwide and have experience testifying in both state and federal courts.
How can a forensic weather report support my legal case?
Weather can make or break a case and having proper meteorological analysis is best practice. Automated data and reports often can not hold up to scrutiny in court. A forensic weather report written by a human forensic meteorologist provides objective, science-based evidence that can clarify weather conditions during incidents such as personal injuries, property damage, or insurance disputes. Our certified weather experts often serve as expert witnesses in court to explain weather impacts clearly and accurately.
How can I get started?
Contact us using the form above and one of our meteorologists will reach out to review your needs.