Carl Christian (C.C.) Wallen

Location of Interview
Collection Name

American Meteorological Society Oral History Project

Description

The American Meteorological Society Oral History Project (AMSOHP) aims to capture the history of the atmospheric sciences as told by scientists, administrators, and others working in the field. The collection is especially rich in interviews that capture the memories of scientists who launched much of the innovative meteorological research in post-war America.

To browse this collection and others, please visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Archives: https://aspace.archives.ucar.edu/

Date of Interview
11-21-1995
12-09-1995
Abstract

Dr. Gordon Cartwright interviewed Dr. Carl Christian (C.C.) Wallen at the headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. The interview highlights Dr. Wallen's extensive career in meteorology and climatology, tracing his early influences and education, his work at the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, and his collaborations with international organizations such as UNESCO, UNEP, and WMO. Dr. Wallen reflects on his involvement in the development of meteorological theories and methodologies, particularly through his connections to the Bergen School of Meteorology, where he worked alongside influential figures like Vilhelm Bjerknes and Tor Bergeron. He elaborates on his contributions to cyclone modeling, synoptic meteorology, and the integration of climatology into global environmental monitoring systems. The conversation also delves into Dr. Wallen’s role in organizing the 1972 UN Conference on the Environment in Stockholm and his efforts to apply meteorological research to address agricultural and socio-economic challenges. Key topics include the theoretical foundations of the Bergen School, the evolution of cyclone models, the interplay between hydrodynamics and atmospheric science, and the broader impacts of meteorology on global environmental and societal issues. Dr. Wallen’s reflections offer a comprehensive overview of the advancements in meteorology during the 20th century and their practical applications worldwide.


Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out  Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc.  The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry. 

The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.

Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.