Steven Keates: The Calm Authority Behind Britain’s Most Critical Weather Decisions
Steven Keates is a highly respected British Chartered Meteorologist whose career sits at the intersection of science, leadership, and public trust. Working at the UK Met Office and based in Exeter, he has spent well over a decade shaping how weather information is forecast, interpreted, and communicated during both routine conditions and national emergencies. Known for his measured judgement and clear communication style, he plays a pivotal role in ensuring that weather intelligence supports public safety, transport, defence, and daily decision-making across the UK.
Professional Role at the Met Office
Expert Operational Meteorologist and Deputy Chief Meteorologist
Steven Keates currently serves as an Expert Operational Meteorologist, alongside duties as UK Deputy Chief Meteorologist. In this senior position, he is involved in high-level forecasting decisions, particularly during periods of severe or high-impact weather. His role requires balancing advanced meteorological analysis with real-time operational judgement, often under intense pressure.
As Deputy Chief Meteorologist, he also acts as a stand-in presenter, helping translate complex weather data into clear, practical guidance for government bodies, emergency planners, broadcasters, and the general public.
Extensive Experience in Operational Meteorology
Senior Operational Meteorologist (2014–2022)
Before reaching his current senior leadership role, Steven Keates worked for eight years as a Senior Operational Meteorologist. During this period, he gained extensive experience across marine, offshore, and media environments. His work included offshore secondments, where accurate forecasting can be critical for safety and logistics.
He was also a regular presenter for Met Office platforms, including digital channels and mobile applications, and contributed weather presentations for BFBS and GB News. This blend of operational forecasting and public communication strengthened his reputation as a reliable and articulate meteorological professional.
Operational Meteorologist (2008–2014)
Earlier in his career, Steven Keates worked as an Operational Meteorologist, producing forecasts for aviation, commercial clients, and media organisations. This role demanded precision, consistency, and a deep understanding of how weather affects different sectors. His forecasts supported flight operations, business planning, and broadcast media, helping organisations manage risk and uncertainty.
Meteorological Observer at RAF Lossiemouth
Steven Keates began his professional journey as a Meteorological Observer at RAF Lossiemouth. This role provided hands-on experience in weather observation and data collection, supporting military aviation operations. The discipline and accuracy required in this environment laid a strong foundation for his later forecasting and leadership roles.
Academic Background and Technical Foundations
Education at Newcastle University
Steven Keates holds a Geography and Surveying honours degree from Newcastle University, where he specialised in geography and cartography, graduating with a 2:1 honours classification. His academic background gave him a strong grounding in spatial analysis, mapping, and environmental systems, all of which are essential skills in modern meteorology.
Schooling and Early Interests
He was educated at Tadcaster Grammar School, where his interest in geography and the natural environment began to take shape. These early interests later developed into a professional career focused on understanding and communicating complex atmospheric systems.
Chartered Status and Professional Recognition
Steven Keates is a Chartered Meteorologist, a professional status that reflects advanced competence, experience, and adherence to high ethical standards. He is also a contributor to the Royal Meteorological Society, engaging with the wider scientific community and supporting the ongoing development of meteorological best practice in the UK.
Media Presence and Public Communication
One of the defining aspects of Steven Keates’ career is his ability to communicate weather information clearly and calmly. Whether presenting forecasts, contributing to broadcasts, or supporting national briefings, he is recognised for translating technical data into accessible insights. His communication style is factual, composed, and grounded in evidence, which is especially important during extreme weather events when public confidence matters most.
Personal Interests and Character
Beyond his professional life, Steven Keates is known for his down-to-earth personality. He openly shares interests in golf, gardening, and food, reflecting a balanced lifestyle outside the demanding world of operational meteorology. These personal touches have helped him connect with audiences and colleagues alike, reinforcing his reputation as both a skilled scientist and a relatable professional.
Why Steven Keates Matters in UK Meteorology
Leadership, Trust, and Expertise
Steven Keates represents the modern face of UK meteorology: technically skilled, operationally experienced, and publicly accountable. His career demonstrates how scientific expertise, when combined with strong communication and leadership, can have a direct impact on public safety and national resilience.
As weather patterns become increasingly complex and extreme, professionals like Steven Keates play a crucial role in helping society understand, prepare for, and respond to atmospheric risk.
Conclusion
Steven Keates stands out as a leading figure in British meteorology, with a career built on precision, responsibility, and public service. From RAF weather observation to senior leadership at the Met Office, his journey reflects deep expertise and steady progression. Today, as Deputy Chief Meteorologist, he continues to shape how weather intelligence is delivered across the UK, ensuring that science serves people when it matters most.
