Maureen Sweeney, Whose Weather Forecast Changed the Timing of the D-Day Landings During World War II, Dies at 100

RTÉ News – December 17, 2023

Maureen Sweeney, the meteorologist whose weather forecast played a pivotal role in altering the timing of the D-Day landings during World War II, has passed away at the age of 100. Her contributions and impact on one of the most significant military operations in history will always be remembered.

Sweeney, who was born in 1923 in County Kerry, Ireland, had a passion for weather and meteorology from a young age. Her fascination with atmospheric conditions led her to pursue a career in meteorology, despite facing gender barriers in the field at the time.

During World War II, Sweeney was working at the British Meteorological Office, where she was responsible for analyzing and forecasting weather patterns. Her expertise became crucial when plans were being made for the Allied invasion of Normandy, known as D-Day.

The original date for the D-Day landings was set for June 5, 1944. However, Sweeney’s analysis indicated that the weather conditions on that day would be unfavorable, with strong winds and rough seas. She believed that such conditions would jeopardize the success of the operation.

Sweeney courageously voiced her concerns to her superiors, urging them to postpone the invasion by one day. Despite facing initial resistance, her arguments were eventually taken into consideration. General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, made the difficult decision to delay the operation.

As history reveals, Sweeney’s forecast proved to be accurate. On June 6, 1944, commonly known as D-Day, the weather conditions improved significantly, allowing the Allies to launch the largest seaborne invasion in history. The successful operation marked a turning point in World War II and ultimately led to the liberation of Europe from Nazi control.

After the war, Sweeney continued her career in meteorology and made significant contributions to the field. She specialized in long-range weather forecasting and worked on various projects related to climate research. Her dedication and expertise earned her recognition and respect among her peers.

Throughout her life, Sweeney remained modest about her role in the D-Day landings. She often credited the collective efforts of the meteorological team and emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving success.

Maureen Sweeney’s legacy as a pioneering meteorologist and her impact on the outcome of the D-Day landings will forever be remembered. Her courage to speak up and her dedication to her work saved countless lives and changed the course of history. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her remarkable achievements and the lasting mark she has left on the world of meteorology.

Rest in peace, Maureen Sweeney.

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Maureen Sweeney, whose weather forecast changed the timing of the D-Day landings during World War II, has died aged 100 https://t.co/CvOQ3g0sQA

— RTÉ News (@rtenews) December 17, 2023

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@rtenews said Maureen Sweeney, whose weather forecast changed the timing of the D-Day landings during World War II, has died aged 100 rte.ie/news/2023/1217…