“Weather Weenie?” We Reveal the Term’s Origins

If you’re fascinated by weather, you might have heard the term “weather weenie” used to describe weather enthusiasts affectionately. But where did this quirky phrase originate, and why does it stick around in meteorological circles?

Like any Internet story, the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, but we’ve tried to figure out where this term first appeared and why it’s remained so long.

The phrase “weather weenie” emerged informally within weather enthusiast communities in the late 20th century, particularly among amateur storm chasers, hobbyist forecasters, and meteorology students.

The term humorously suggests someone who is not just interested in weather, but perhaps overly enthusiastic—bordering on obsessed—about weather events, forecasting techniques, weather gadgets, and storm phenomena.

It’s often used in a negative connotation – a weather weenie often seems detached from the science: i.e., every nor’easter is a blizzard, every hurricane a Category 5.

But there are levels of weather weenieism, in our opinion. Some are the real crazy ones, but there are folks, like Jim Cantore, who’s love for the science makes it hard not to be one.

Where did “weather weenie” come from?

Anecdotal evidence points to weather forums and early Internet bulletin boards in the 1980s and 1990s. Notable gathering spots were the The Weather Channel Forum on CompuServe (TWC was an early adopter of “social media!”), and #weather on Internet Relay Chat (IRC), a chat application similar to how Discord works today.

These platforms allowed enthusiasts to gather, share data, forecasts, and discuss weather in meticulous detail, sometimes leading to friendly teasing and the coinage of playful terms like “weather weenie.”

Interestingly, the term has been embraced positively rather than negatively within weather communities. Meteorologists, storm chasers, and weather enthusiasts often proudly refer to themselves as weather weenies, indicating passion, dedication, and deep curiosity rather than ridicule.

The phrase continues to thrive today, appearing frequently in online communities, social media, and weather podcasts. It’s a badge of honor for many, symbolizing interest, genuine excitement, and respect for weather science.

So next time someone calls you a weather weenie, wear it proudly—you’re part of a passionate community fascinated by the ever-changing sky.

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