March 15, 2017
Why are weather maps important?
Weather maps help create accurate weather predictions so that we can
plan our day-to-day activities. Weather forecasting helps us to make
more informed daily decisions, and may even help keep us out of danger.
Modern weather forecasting involves a combination of computer models,
observation, and a knowledge of trends and patterns.
So, what is all that stuff on a
weather map represent?
March 15, 2017
Air Pressure
Air pressure is represented by a line on a map connecting places with equal
pressure know as isobars.
Isobar: a line on a map connecting places with equal air pressure.
Isobars help scientists predict how fast air will move. Remember the
greater the difference in air pressure the faster the wind blows.
March 15, 2017
High Pressure and Low Pressure
On weather maps high pressure is show using a blue H.
Low pressure is shown using a red L.
March 15, 2017
Cold, Warm, and Stationary Fronts
Cold fronts are represented on a map using a line with blue triangles.
Warm fronts are represented on a
map using a line with red half circles.
Stationary fronts are represented on
a map using a line with alternating
and opposing red half circles and blue
triangles.
March 15, 2017
Station Models
A weather station model includes temperature, cloud cover, air pressure,
pressure change, wind speed, and wind direction.
Cloud Cover
Wind
Air Pressure