Forensic meteorology is the scientific reconstruction of past weather conditions at a specific time and place, used to support legal investigations, insurance claims, and litigation.
Expert Insights from Rimkus Meteorologist John Lavin, CCM
Weather plays a critical role in many investigations, claims, and legal disputes, yet determining what actually happened at a specific time and place can be highly complex. Forensic meteorologists apply scientific analysis, historical weather data, and professional expertise to reconstruct past atmospheric conditions and provide reliable answers to questions where weather is a material factor.
We asked Rimkus Forensic Meteorologist John Lavin, CCM (Certified Consulting Meteorologist), to explain what forensic meteorologists do, how weather is reconstructed, why professional interpretation matters, and how Rimkus experts support investigations and litigation with specialized forensic meteorology services.
What does a forensic meteorologist do?
Forensic meteorologists specialize in reconstructing the weather at a particular time and place. While traditionally meteorologists have studied the atmosphere to predict what may occur, a forensic meteorologist looks back in time to determine what the weather did at a specific time and place.
How does a forensic meteorologist reconstruct past weather conditions?
A forensic meteorologist 1) identifies and gathers all reliable and relevant historical weather data from weather stations, satellites, radar, and other relevant sources; 2) evaluates the quality of the data and analyzes weather patterns and conditions specific to a location at a specific time; and 3) drawing on extensive experience and reliable scientific methodology, concludes what the weather conditions were either through a verbal or written report.
Why can’t I just rely on historical weather data online?
While many weather records and data can be accessed online, non-meteorologists may misinterpret this information. Furthermore, the data could be unreliable or irrelevant to the actual weather conditions in specific locations. For instance, one side of a town might experience hail while the other side does not. Additionally, some weather data is generated automatically through computer models or algorithms, often without being reviewed by a meteorologist.
What sets Rimkus forensic meteorology consulting services apart from competitors?
Rimkus forensic meteorologists have extensive, diverse experience in operational and forensic meteorology services throughout North America, including consulting work with many Fortune 500 companies during catastrophic weather events. Each of our forensic meteorologists have either advanced meteorology degrees or a Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) designation from the American Meteorological Society. Additionally, our experts also have extensive trial and deposition testifying experience. Finally, our meteorology experts commonly collaborate with other Rimkus expertise to answer our customers’ complex questions and challenges.
What types of cases commonly rely on expert witness weather testimony?
Forensic meteorologists play a crucial role in a variety of situations where weather is a significant factor. Their expertise is essential in addressing property damage claim disputes, premises liability cases such as slip-and-falls, automobile and aviation (transportation) accidents, and construction disputes involving delays and damages.
How can a meteorology expert witness support litigation?
One of the primary roles of a forensic meteorologist is to confirm or dispute specific weather facts relevant to a case. For instance, in a slip-and-fall case, one party may claim that the weather conditions were below freezing and that there was snow on the ground. A forensic meteorologist can verify the accuracy of this claim by providing reliable expert analysis about the weather at that particular time and location.
In another scenario, during a property damage claim involving hail, a forensic meteorologist can detail the methodology they used to determine the occurrence, duration, and maximum size of the hail at the specified location on the reported date of loss. Other experts without meteorological training do not have the qualifications to provide such testimony or opinions, as it falls outside their area of expertise.
Meet the Consulting Expert™
John Lavin, CCM, is the Rimkus Meteorology Practice Leader and a Certified Consulting Meteorologist through the American Meteorological Society (AMS). Based in Kansas, he serves clients nationally. He holds a Bachelor of Science in atmospheric sciences from the University of Kansas and has more than 10 years of professional experience providing both forecasting and forensic meteorology services to Fortune 500 companies as well as clients in the legal and insurance industries.
Over his career, John has served as a meteorology consultant and expert witness in complex, multi-million-dollar matters involving property damage claims, personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits, aviation and automobile accidents, and catastrophic weather event analysis. He has given expert testimony in deposition and trial settings in both state and federal courts. Additionally, John has provided operational meteorology support for major weather phenomena including hurricanes, winter storms, and severe weather outbreaks.
Contact Rimkus
To learn more about how Rimkus meteorology experts can support your investigation or litigation with precise weather reconstruction and expert testimony, contact John to discuss your assignment or request a consultation.
Visit Rimkus’ Forensic Meteorology Services page to learn more.
John D. Lavin, CCM
Director, Meteorology Practice
+1 316 975 3409
[email protected]
Published on March 27, 2026
This blog post is intended to provide general information and insights into prevailing industry practices. It is not intended to constitute, and should not be relied upon as, legal, technical, or professional advice. The content does not replace consultation with a qualified expert or professional regarding the specific facts and circumstances of any particular matter.