The Royal Meteorological Society is saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Julian Hunt HonFRMetS, Baron Hunt of Chesterton, a distinguished atmospheric scientist and valued member of our community.

Julian joined the RMetS in 1974 and was awarded Honorary Fellowship of the Royal Meteorological Society in 2011 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to meteorology and the wider environmental sciences. He also served as a member of the RMetS History Group between 2015 and 2020, reflecting his deep interest in the development and legacy of our field.

A former Director General and Chief Executive of the Met Office (1992–1997), Julian played a pivotal role in guiding the organisation through a period of transformation, while championing the importance of research-led operational meteorology and international collaboration. His work helped strengthen the global exchange of meteorological data, a principle that remains fundamental today.

Julian’s academic career at the University of Cambridge, where he was Professor of Fluid Dynamics, was marked by influential research on turbulence and atmospheric dispersion. He had a rare ability to connect mathematical insight with real-world applications, inspiring generations of scientists. Many remember his charismatic and engaging style, both as a lecturer and speaker, and his enthusiasm for advancing numerical weather prediction and climate science.

He is remembered as a remarkable scientist, mentor and public servant, whose vision and energy left a lasting impact on meteorology. The Society is grateful for his longstanding support and contributions, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.