Integrating Weather Observations into Journey North Using the Weather Observation Chart Date and Time: Pick a time to take your readings. Collect them the same time each day. Decide how you will collect them on the weekends. Temperature: A good minimum/maximum thermometer will record the highest and lowest temperatures since your last reading. Thermometers are available in battery-powered digital form, standard mercury/alcohol or more expensive remote sensing and recording units. If choosing standard unit, look for one that uses mercury for the maximum reading and alcohol for the minimum. To collect the most accurate information your thermometer should be located outside in a safe, sturdy location on the north side of the building where it's shadiest. Position it securely beside the building, perhaps on a brick foundation and 5 feet off the ground for the most accurate reading. To match the readings taken by the National Weather Service the thermometer should be located over turf. Barometer Reading: The barometric pressure should be recorded several times a day for the most accurate weather predictions. Barometric pressure readings for a 24 hour period in your area are at AccuWeather.com. Wind Speed: One way to estimate wind speed is to use the Beaufort Scale. Simple flag observations can also be used for estimates: No Flag Movement = Calm Slight Flag Movement = 3-5 mph Flag at 45° = 8-12 mph Flag at 90° = 15-20 mph Flag Full Out = > 20 mph Facebook Pinterest Twitter © 1997 – 2019 Journey North. All rights reserved.