The former USA Today weather editor, Williams explores the science behind the weather, stories of people coping with severe weather, and those who devote their lives to understanding the atmosphere, oceans, and climate. The book's historic discussions and profiles illustrate how meteorology and the related sciences are interwoven throughout our lives. Williams had previously authored the highly successful USA TODAY Weather Book, but by 2004 the book was out of date. "USA TODAY wasn't interested in doing a third edition, but the American Meteorological Society was interested in a book for the general public," he said. Williams retired from USA TODAY in 2005 and went to work for the AMS with the main job of writing The AMS Weather Book.