Meteorological Icon Robert Simpson Passes Away

Robert Simpson, a meteorological icon, has passed away at the age of 102. Simpson was the co-developer of the Saffir-Simpson scale, which is used to measure hurricane intensity. Simpson was also the director if the National Hurricane Center from 1968-1974. He later became a part of the faculty and staff at the University of Virginia.

The meteorological community is grieving its loss today on social media platforms

Robert Simpson, who passed last night, described by colleagues as “legend” “giant in field” and “icon”: http://t.co/aLRjs3qqta

— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) December 19, 2014

We lost a great atmospheric scientist today. Dr. Robert Simpson passed away today at the age of 102. #SaffirSimpsonScale #Hurricanes

— Sam Ng (@DocWX) December 19, 2014

Dr. Robert Simpson, Former Director of the NHC died this morning at his home. Memorial service scheduled for February pic.twitter.com/i901CYETZ8

— alex garcia (@alexgarcia_wx) December 19, 2014

The Capital Weather Gang has put together a nice article detailing the life and career of Robert Simpson.