BACKGROUND:
Understanding and forecasting weather
is complicated. It is now recognized that long term forecasting must include
observations of ocean and atmospheric patterns. Until about 1920, most
forecasting was based almost exclusively on practical experience. Recording
solar radiation (temperature), humidity (hygrometer), air pressure (barometer)
and cloud cover help people interpret and determine patterns.
Between 1920-1930 charting air mass
movements and charting fronts greatly improved forecasting of weather
patterns. After 1930 mathematical analysis and interpretation of motion of
physical models that could be produced experimentally. These equations aid in
forecasting.
Starting in the late 1960's, satellite
images also provided continuous information. Today, information from
satellites provide a detailed documentation of temperature, solar radiation,
cloud movement that provided unparalleled control.
PROCEDURE:
- The Internet is rich with information
that have only been available recently tot he public. Go over the following
Internet sites that can provide data for students for years to come.
http://www.weatherimages.org/
This site links to many other sites that have live image feeds.
You can find your local area so students can learn how to access
information. You never know when students want to know the weather for a
sporting event!
http://www.noaa.gov/
This site is the government
agency responsible for weather services. The National Oceanographic and
Atmospheric Agency provides information from satellite feeds and other types
of monitoring system throughout the world. The National Weather Service is
responsible for the weather.
http://www.australiansevereweather.com/
Australian severe weather atlas
including wonderful weather photography, cyclones, lightning data, weather
techniques and much more.
http://www.cira.colostate.edu/
Cooperative Institute for Research in
the Atmosphere of Colorado State University.
- If you don’t have access to the
internet bring in newspapers and find the weather section. Make sure that
students can find, read, and interpret the maps.
