Actually a dissertation is "a treatise advancing a new point of view resulting from research; usually a requirement for an advanced academic degree "

But I digress...there is no immediate danger and so straying from the topic of weather is somewhat common and allowed (within reason) I've been watching the board all morning and it's not very busy so I'm not sure why people get so upset if every single comment isn't about weather.
I personally am thrilled that I have no weather to worry about at the moment. Breathe, relax, enjoy life. When one is coming our way the off-topic chit-chat ends and serious discussion takes over...