How meteorologists recreated weather that helped decide second world war
The film 'Pressure' depicts the critical role meteorologists played in the success of the 1944 D-day landings by forecasting volatile weather conditions. Experts consulted for the film highlight the immense difficulty of weather prediction during the 1940s compared to modern standards.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of historical military strategy and scientific advancement, showcasing how data-driven decisions changed the course of World War II.
A scene from Pressure, with Brendan Fraser as Gen Dwight D Eisenhower, Andrew Scott as Gp Capt James Stagg and Kerry Condon as Capt Kay Summersby. Photograph: Focus Features/PA A scene from Pressure, with Brendan Fraser as Gen Dwight D Eisenhower, Andrew Scott as Gp Capt James Stagg and Kerry Condon as Capt Kay Summersby. Photograph: Focus Features/PA Meteorology How meteorologists recreated weather that helped decide second world war Experts helped guide weather scenes in Pressure – a film depicting dramatic buildup to 1944’s D-day landings
Prefer the Guardian on Google D ressed in a Royal Air Force uniform and sporting a trim moustache, Andrew Scott looks slightly queasy – as well he might. Behind him is a huge map of the Channel, and in front of him is Brendan Fraser, looming with a request: “I need a forecast,” he says.
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