Kinds of Weather Instruments

Meteorologists need to use many instruments in order to predict the weather correctly and to create a forecast. Some of the weather instruments are even found in the home! Weather instruments include thermometers, barometers, rain gauges, anemometers, wind vanes and weather satellites.

Thermometer

A thermometer containing either liquid mercury or colored alcohol measures the temperature by allowing the liquid to expand and rise as the temperature increases, and by allowing the liquid to contract and fall when the temperature decreases.

Barometer

A weatherman uses the barometer to measure the pressure. Typically, when a barometer rises, it indicates that the weather will be hot and sunny. When a barometer falls, it indicates that the weather will be rainy.

Rain Gauge

A rain gauge measures the amount of rainfall during a certain period of time. It is useful to help scientists determine whether or not there is a shortage of water or a drought in effect.

Anemometer

An anemometer measures the wind speed, which can help a meteorologist determine how severe a hurricane is.

Wind Vane

The wind vane indicates from which direction the wind is blowing.

Weather Satellite

Weather satellites are used to see the "big picture" system from space. The data taken by these satellites are analyzed using a computer.