The Bismarck Sea Battle—1 March 1943 (continued)

Forecasters were asked for long range forecasts of up to a month for certain targets and objectives. Although it was pointed out that any degree of accuracy was almost impossible for periods longer than 48 hours, the Met. was ordered to have a go. No one was keen on forecasting for periods beyond about six hours! The problem was approached by making a thorough climatological study of the region under discussion, and to produce what was called an advice. To the disapproval and discomfort of the Met., general headquarters insisted on calling this a forecast.

Despite the difficulties, considerable success was achieved. For instance, there was the forecast given a month ahead for the Allied landing at Lae on 4 September 1943, featuring the first Allied use of paratroops in the South-West Pacific area. Largely, on the consideration of the behaviour of the upper winds that season, good weather was forecast, and so it came to pass. The landing proceeded with adequate fighter cover—the USAAF downed 23 enemy planes—and, the next day, a successful parachute descent took place at Nadzab, New Guinea.

At general headquarters, Brisbane, the Met. was called upon for all sorts of incidental tasks. Lecturing to the AIF School of Intelligence was one of these. The students of this school were keenly interested in the application of weather factors to army operation, and asked many pertinent questions. They fully realised how important weather was in deciding the nature of air support, and in amphibious, gas and smoke operations.

Frequently on Saturday mornings, weekend forecasts for the Gold Coast beach resorts were sought. There were plenty of Allied personnel at these places all through the war.

Bureau of Meteorology