Interpreting Weather Maps

Every morning and evening, a meteorologist will analyze weather maps in order to predict a forecast for the general public on your local news station. Similar forecasts are available on weather-related mobile device apps. Now, it is your turn to analyze weather maps for the current atmospheric conditions. In order to complete this assignment, you will need to visit the National Weather Service's website to view the maps of today’s weather. You will find that there are several weather maps used to compile the daily weather. You should take the time to view each of the maps.

Once you have become acquainted with each of the different weather maps from the National Weather Service, you will focus on Surface Analysis and Short Range Forecast maps to complete this assignment. The Surface Analysis map depicts pressure patterns, circulation centers and fronts, as well as the types and the extent of precipitation. You will want to view the 24-hour version of this map. You will also want to use the Short Range Forecast map. This map is extremely detailed with station models for most cities in the continental United States. This map will show you the station model for your location. Make sure you view the high resolution version of this map.

Your job is to describe the weather of your location using the two maps provided. In a brief response, describe the current atmospheric conditions that are shown in the weather maps. In addition to your description, you should provide a labeled sketch of the station model closest to your location shown on the Short Range Forecast map. Your weather response should include the following weather conditions:

• Air Pressure
• High Temperature
• Low Temperature
• Wind Speed
• Wind Direction
  
• Cloud Cover

Before you begin, access the Weather Map Checklist to make sure that you include all of the items required for full credit. You will need resources outside of this course to complete this assignment, so please submit a Works Cited document with your assignment submission. If you need assistance, visit the Developmental Module for information on citing any resources that you used.

Once you have completed your description, sketch, and Works Cited document, please submit your work to the dropbox.