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