ORF meteorologist Erhard Berger retires after more than 40 years

ORF meteorologist Erhard Berger retired on Thursday after more than 40 years forecasting the weather for audiences in Tyrol and South Tyrol, ORF reported.

Berger joined ORF in 1987 and presented his first television weather forecast during the first edition of the programme Tirol Heute on May 2, 1988. Since then, he has explained weather phenomena and put them into context for viewers.

Berger grew up in Styria, and his enthusiasm for outdoor sports led him to study in Innsbruck. His fascination with the weather has remained undiminished. Even after almost 50 years, including his time as a student, he said he was still surprised that the field continued to offer new challenges.

Temperatures of 40 degrees have surprised Berger. Many people believe climate change will arrive at some point in the future, he said, but it has already begun. Heatwaves will occur much more frequently and last for much longer periods, he said.

Berger said his motivation had always been to use forecasts to help protect people from possible disasters linked to extreme weather. He produced thousands of weather reports for ORF.

The 64 year old will continue to follow the weather after his retirement. He does not yet know exactly how he will use the three to four hours a day he previously spent interpreting weather charts. A photovoltaic system on his roof is waiting for him, as are his grandchildren, who range in age from four years to four weeks. He said he wanted to help their parents and show the children that people do not always have to argue.