For decades, broadcast meteorology has been dominated by white men, leaving out women, especially women of color. Despite this, black women are now fighting to break barriers and claim top meteorology roles.

In December 2022, Veronica Johnson was named the new Chief Meteorologist for WJLA, the ABC affiliate for the D.C. area. However, the path to reach this role has been a challenge, especially for black women in the industry. According to data from the American Meteorological Society (AMS), black and African American meteorologists only made up 2% of the society's membership in 2020. In addition, the National Association of Black Journalists says there are only about 138 black meteorologists in journalism across the United States, with 46% being women. This is significantly less than the number of black TV anchors and reporters. Furthermore, a 2018 study by Alexandra Cranford found that women made up just 8% of chief meteorologists nationwide.

Despite these barriers, black women like Veronica Johnson have not given up on their dreams. Johnson is an Emmy-award winning meteorologist who was twice passed over for a top position in the past but has finally achieved her goal after 30 years. Johnson has now become the first female chief meteorologist in the station's 75-year history and is one of few black women to hold the American Meteorological Society’s prestigious television seal of excellence and its Fellow award.

However, being a mold-breaking black woman in the field has brought added frustration and scrutiny for Johnson and others in the top spot. Karlene Chavis, the first black chief meteorologist in San Diego’s broadcast market, has faced similar challenges. Betty Davis, a chief meteorologist in South Florida, has been in the field for 20 years and considered leaving the industry after a news director told her she wasn’t smart enough. But veterans like Davis can now see a change in the cultural tide.

In conclusion, black women are breaking barriers in broadcast meteorology, but the journey has been a challenge. Despite this, black women like Veronica Johnson and Betty Davis have not given up on their dreams and are now paving the way for future generations.

H/T Washington Post