Evaluating the crucial role of weather during D-Day [Video]

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On June 6, 1944, the largest amphibious invasion in history took place along the coast of France, an event forever known as D-Day. 

While much is known about the heroism and strategy behind Operation Overlord, the critical role of weather forecasting is often overlooked. The success of this pivotal operation hinged significantly on the accurate weather predictions made in the days leading up to the invasion.

Operation Overlord needed to be executed between June 4-6 to avoid underwater obstacles like mines and beach defenses that could only be navigated at low tide. However, a severe storm on June 4 posed a significant threat to the mission’s timing. Missing this window would mean delaying the invasion by two weeks, increasing the risk of the operation being …