Weather Records For Use in Litigation
The State Climatologist’s Office has a wide variety of Iowa weather records that can be certified for court use. If you have a need for official weather data please contact Dr. Justin Glisan at (515) 281-8981 or via e-mail at Justin.Glisan@IowaAgriculture.gov Please include a detailed description of the type of data needed. At a minimum information such as the location, date, hour and type of data needed (temperature, precipitation, wind, etc.) is necessary to obtain the weather report(s) most suitable to meet your needs. It is very helpful if you can provide a summary of how you want to use the data (i.e., what point you are attempting to establish). The more detail you can provide, the more likely it is that you will receive a weather report that meets your needs.
There is a charge for providing copies of weather records (paper copies, fax or e-mail). PAYMENT IS REQUIRED IN ADVANCE. Reports are usually mailed within one to two business days of the receipt of payment; however, larger requests may require more time. Sorry, credit cards are NOT accepted. Checks should be made payable to the Iowa Dept. of Agriculture & Land Stewardship. Please call for prices. If you are on a tight deadline it is strongly urged that you call first before sending any payment.
The State Climatologist often can provide preliminary information verbally over the telephone to help determine if official data are available or may be helpful for your situation. The State Climatologist does NOT routinely serve as an expert witness. However, private companies and individuals are available that can serve in the capacity of an expert witness.
Finally, the State Climatologist routinely archives only Iowa weather records. Referrals will be made to agencies in other states as appropriate.
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Wallace State Office Bldg.; Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: (515) 281-8981