Professor Hannah Cloke Appointed Regius Professor

Professor Hannah Cloke OBE has been appointed Regius Professor of Meteorology and Climate at the University of Reading. This rare honour recognises her position as a world-leading scientist in her field, becoming only the second holder of the University of Reading’s sole Regius Professorship.

To mark the appointment, Professor Cloke will deliver a keynote public talk in Reading next month, exploring how human imagination is at the heart of weather and climate science. The talk, titled “The climate futures we dare to imagine”, will take place at Reading Town Hall on Monday 15 June (7–8.30pm) as part of Reading Climate Festival.

The talk will explore what is happening to our weather, and why; what this could mean for Reading and towns and cities like it across the country; and how science can put people in charge of their own futures, by helping communities to prepare and respond.

“The weather is rightly a British obsession, because it affects every part of our lives. By understanding it better, we can make better decisions and prepare for what’s ahead. Weather and climate science are too important to leave to the scientists. With extreme weather affecting homes, health and neighbourhoods, people should know that we have the power to see and shape our own future.

This event is an opportunity to ask questions, share ideas and explore what lies ahead with curiosity and confidence,”

said Professor Hannah Cloke.

Professor Cloke has been honoured with the title for her internationally recognised work in hydrology and meteorology, specialising in floods, climate extremes, and disaster risk reduction. A Research Fellow at the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), Professor Cloke has developed flood forecasts and heat hazard warning systems. In 2019, Regius Professor Cloke was awarded an OBE for services to flood forecasting and the development of hazard early warning systems.

Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said:

“Professor Hannah Cloke helps people see the world around them more clearly, and show what changing weather means for us all. Her research has already helped communities around the world prepare for floods and extreme weather, and her ability to clearly explain complex ideas helps us dare to dream of new futures. Anyone with wants to understand more about our changing weather, and what it means for Reading and beyond, should come to her talk and join the conversation.”

Source: University of Reading