Virgin Islander Sanaa Burke Shines on Fox Weather, Pursues Career in Meteorology and Climate Science

A young Virgin Islander is making waves on national television, and is using the attention to propel her career studying waves — tropical ones, that is — as well as depressions, storms and hurricanes.‌

This week, Sanaa Burke has appeared on Fox Weather three times in as many days to provide updates on storm damage across the territory. Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in meteorology and climate science with a minor in geography at the University of Delaware, Ms. Burke has described the experience as “absolutely wonderful.”

‌Born and raised in Christiansted, St. Croix, Sanaa spent her formative years with her head in the clouds — almost literally. “We had this segment in our science books that spoke about the different types of clouds. I would take that book outside every day and I would identify each cloud one by one,” she said gleefully, citing the experience as the one where her love for meteorology began. “Fox Weather, specifically, has reignited that spark I've had for meteorology, and there's no going back for me.”

In the direct path of Tropical Storm Ernesto while at home in St. Croix, Ms. Burke shared weather updates with her colleagues at the University of Delaware via an online group chat. It was one of the university’s alumni who offered her the Fox Weather opportunity after receiving her updates. Initially hesitant, she quickly reconsidered. “When doors are open for you, you do not close them on yourself.”

“They're inviting me to come to the studio whenever I'm up in New York… I am just so overwhelmed. I'm grateful. I am thankful. I don't have words. It's beyond my capabilities to explain,” an excited Sanaa Burke told the Consortium. The meteorology student has already begun making arrangements to take full advantage of the opportunity.