Is It Going To Rain Today? Understanding the Weather Forecast

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

(Courtesy: National Weather Service/NOAA, Department of Commerce)

Since we do 24 hour emergency weather damage cleanup we definitely keep an eye on the weather.  Each time it rains or storms we can get a wide range of phone calls from overflowing sump pumps to leaky windows and roofs, so it's important for us to follow and understand Weather Forecast Terminology.  Here's some helpful information that should help you understand what all those weather terms mean.

Every day people check the weather forecast to plan their daily activities, but do they really understand what the meteorologist is telling them?  This blog is intended to develop a better understanding of those forecasts.  It is designed to help people make informed decisions about travel plans, sports practices and events, campouts or other outdoor activities before hazardous weather develops.

The National Weather Service (NWS) is the federal agency charged with providing weather services to the nation.  It is the official source of watches, warnings and advisories for hazardous weather.  Weather forecasts and warnings can be received directly from the NWS through its nationwide network of NOAA Weather Radio.

This blog will use terminology as defined by the NWS.  Forecast products issues by countries other than the US have different criteria.  Forecasters outside of the NWS (such as on radio and television) may use different terms or place a different meaning on weather terms.

Weather Forecast Terminology

The basic weather forecast includes the following weather elements: precipitation, probability of precipitation, sky condition, temperature and wind.  Forecasts describe the weather in 12-hour increments such as "today", "tonight" and "tomorrow."  Forecasters often use descriptive terms to convey the forecast message.  While these terms may be subjective, the NWS attempts to standardize them.

Details on precipitation probabilities, sky conditions and wind will be provided in future blogs as well as information about additional Basic Weather Terms and Fire and Thunderstorm Related Terms.

Call SERVPRO of Texarkana 903-832-4400 for our storm services.