Technology Today: How They Measure True Weather

Over the years, meteorologists have used several tools to predict changes in weather (날씨) patterns. They use different tools to measure atmospheric conditions as they have occurred in the past and present and apply this information to create educated guesses about future weather. Meteorological instruments are used to measure temperature, wind, precipitation, and other atmospheric factors that describe local weather and climate. Today, weather forecasting technologies such as small weather stations, electronic barometers, and smartphone apps have improved accuracy and increased public access to weather data. Because temperature is very important, knowing how to measure it correctly is essential. In this article, we’ll be discussing how they measure true weather by using modern technology. 

Satellites

Meteorologists use satellites to observe cloud patterns around the world and radar to measure precipitation. All this data is then fed into a supercomputer, which uses numerical prediction equations to create atmospheric forecast models. These predictive models may or may not be correct, so meteorologists must be cautious and determine whether they agree with the model. Some meteorologists might use other methods if they do not agree with the results from the satellites.

Rain Gauge

A rain gauge is an instrument used to measure the amount of precipitation over a certain period. In its most basic form, a rain gauge can be a bucket that collects rainwater, measured with a ruler. For rain gauges to be as accurate as possible, they need to be placed in an open area free of obstacles such as trees or buildings. The goal of measuring weather is always accuracy, but sometimes real-world weather conditions get in the way of our measurements. During a hurricane or severe thunderstorm, high winds can stop rainwater from falling into the gauge, and can even blow debris into the gauge, blocking the opening in the gauge.

Temperature Sensors

You've most likely seen a temperature sensor connected to a thermometer in a modern weather station. The temperature sensor is contained within the ventilation, allowing air to flow freely over the sensor and measure the temperature while keeping the thermometer away from the direct heat of the sun.

Hygrometers

Relative humidity can be measured using a hygrometer. There are many different types of hygrometers, but they are similar in that they measure temperature in two different ways, using a dry bulb thermometer and a wet bulb thermometer. Dry bulb thermometers measure air temperature only, while wet bulb thermometers measure evaporative cooling.

Anemometers

An anemometer is an instrument that measures wind speed, commonly found in weather stations. When the wind blows, it pushes the cup and rotates the arm at a speed proportional to the wind speed. Many weather stations also use tools that combine an anemometer and wind vane. Combining these two instruments into one is called a propeller anemometer. Because propeller anemometers measure speed and direction simultaneously, they are considered more accurate than two separate instruments.

Barometers

Measuring pressure is important because it is related to volume, density, and temperature. In the atmosphere, a warm surface can heat the air above it, making it less dense and rising. This causes low pressure and eventually creates clouds and precipitation in the upward-moving area. Air pressure, or barometric pressure, can be measured with a barometer. Aneroid barometers are one of the most common types of barometers. It uses a sealed air container to detect changes in atmospheric pressure outside the container. As atmospheric pressure increases, it pushes the container down and reduces volume slightly, which moves the indicator needle toward the higher pressure. If the atmospheric pressure decreases, the container expands slightly and the pointer indicates the lower pressure.