What are Weather Instruments?
Weather instruments are tools that measure weather-related conditions and parameters. Atmospheric scientists and meteorologists use these devices to interpret the Earth’s weather, generate weather forecasts and issue alerts.
Weather enthusiasts, homeowners, or business owners use these instruments to make their lives more comfortable and safer. Construction, agriculture, fire safety, ballistics (Long-Range Shooting) are only a few of the areas using weather instruments.
There are 6 most common types of weather instruments, and each device is used for a particular weather condition.
What are the 6 most common types of weather instruments?
Thermometer
A thermometer measures hot or cold the air temperature is. Being updated with the temperature outside our home is essential so that we can dress appropriately.
Barometer
A barometer is a device that measures air pressure, according to https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/what-does-a-barometer-measure. When pressure rises, this means dry and sunny weather, while when pressure falls, it means wet and stormy conditions. Understanding atmospheric pressure is particularly useful to people who frequently experience barometric pressure headaches.
Hygrometer
A hygrometer measures the humidity or the amount of water vapor in the air (more info). Knowing the humidity in the air could help you for example to protect your musical instruments made from wood or even old books. Also, increased humidity in your home could lead to the development of mold.
Anemometer
An Anemometer is a tool used for measuring wind speed, according to https://www.omega.com/en-us/resources/anemometers. It is a standard instrument included in most weather stations. There are either analog or digital anemometers. Knowing the exact wind speed and direction of the wind in your immediate area is particularly useful when you are planning to reduce your monthly energy bill and go green using a Home Wind Turbine.
Wind Vane
Wind vanes measure wind direction. Meteorologists use this instrument to predict weather patterns, while sailors use it as a navigational device.
Rain Gauge
A rain gauge is also known as pluviometer. It measures the amount of rainfall in an area within a given period.
Why are weather instruments important?
Weather instruments are essential because it gives meteorologists the ability to predict the weather in the short term, and even future weather patterns. The weather data from these instruments then serves as a determining factor for a lot of industries like Agriculture and Logistics and also helps meteorologists create early warning signs for human safety.
What weather instruments do meteorologists use?
Before modern technology, meteorologists use the 6 main types of weather instruments. Today, they use more advanced devices; according to NOAA, meteorologists use the following tools to forecast the weather.
Doppler Radar – is a meteorologist’s ticket into detecting storms.
Weather Satellite – collects data and monitors Earth from space used by meteorologists to analyze possible weather changes.
Radiosondes – are attached to balloons and released in the air for two hours. They collect data about temperature, air pressure, relative humidity, wind direction, and wind speed.
Automated Surface Observing Systems – monitors weather conditions on Earth’s surface.
