When discussing the meteorology and climatology of a place, these characteristics are collected through devices that can record data. The data relevant to defining the meteorology or climatology of a place are meteorological variables, also known as climate drivers . The values ​​of these variables are studied, measured, and collected at a weather station . This is simply a device capable of collecting all these atmospheric variables that are relevant to understanding the meteorology of a region.
In this article we are going to tell you what are the main characteristics, applications and types of weather station that exist. In addition, you will know the importance they have for the knowledge of meteorology.
Key features
This device can be installed on any terrain, anywhere in the world. It requires certain conditions to perform measurements accurately, but these conditions are not overly complex to meet. A single device is insufficient to measure all atmospheric variables, as it's important to assess the measurement error range. One cannot rely entirely on the readings of a single measuring instrument.
For this reason, the area of ​​land dedicated to the installation of different meteorological instruments is known as a meteorological garden. The usefulness of the meteorological station is very high and thanks to it, valuable data can be obtained. Among the best known functions we have the following:
- Know the weather conditions of the place where it is located.
- Comparisons with other stations in nearby locations are possible to see how the data varies and verify its accuracy. This also helps meteorology enthusiasts better understand their surroundings.
- They help to obtain information that is needed to obtain the weather forecasts. With the data obtained, various numerical models are used for calculations. In this way, it is possible to provide the data to indicate the weather forecast.
- They serve to create climate information in a representative way of the place where we collect the data.
- With it you can create information alerts on meteorological phenomena that may affect or be of interest. For example, the existence of a front with possible rains.
- Thanks to the data obtained, correlations of weather phenomena can be made that have been able to generate some risk situations, accidents, etc.
- Important data is obtained for the development of crops in agriculture and for preventing crop destruction, something that can be studied further in amateur weather stations.
Types of weather station
A meteorological station is responsible for measuring a large number of atmospheric variables. We are going to make a list with them:
- Temperature in air
- Humidity
- Barometric pressure
- Wind speed
- Direction of the wind
- Precipitation
- UV level
- Snow Thickness
- Soil temperature
- Humidity of floor
- Solar radiation
- Visibility
- Contamination analysis
- Light hour measurement
- Measurement of cloud height
Although there are different types of weather stations, they all usually measure the same or almost the same. Also depending on the quality of each one. We are going to analyze which are the most important stations:
Domestic weather stations
These are the ones available for the general public. They are quite inexpensive and have simpler features. They don't have USB ports and measure basic weather information such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and precipitation. To learn more, you can consult how to choose a suitable weather station here.
Stations with PC connection
As their name suggests, these devices connect to a computer via USB. The data is then exported and displayed in Excel. They are among the most popular with weather enthusiasts . These models are somewhat more expensive than home models because they have a greater capacity for measuring meteorological variables.
It measures the same things as domestic thermometers, but it can also measure solar radiation levels, wind direction, and wind speed. Furthermore, it can provide wind chill and dew point temperatures, information that is essential for understanding various weather conditions, so it's advisable to consult a guide on how to calculate wind chill.
Wifi weather stations
These weather stations have an advantage over previous models: they can transmit data over the internet for online streaming. The connection can be made via Wi-Fi or a direct cable to the modem. Some models even include a screen, making it much easier to analyze the data on-site. They are among the most popular with weather enthusiasts, who seek more precise monitoring of atmospheric conditions. Furthermore, their importance is reflected in their use in climate change studies.
Portable weather stations
These are pocket weather stations. They're designed to collect data at specific times and are ideal for outdoor activities. Many plans are canceled due to weather conditions. Thanks to this station, you can monitor atmospheric variables to get a forecast of rain or adverse weather. They don't have the same precision as a larger station, but they're quite useful, especially when doing outdoor activities.
What instruments does a weather station have
To be able to measure all these variables, measuring devices and meteorological instruments are needed. We are going to comment on the characteristics of each instrument and the functions they have:
- Thermometer. I think it is the most obvious, since if we want to measure the temperature it is necessary. Temperature is considered the variable that most affects humans.
- Hygrometer. It is used to measure the humidity in the air and the dew point. In this way, we will be able to know how humidity affects the thermal sensation at all times, both in combination with heat and cold.
- Pluviometer. Necessary to measure rainfall at all times. It gives us important data on torrential rains, agriculture and water supply.
- Anemometer. Ideal for measuring the speed at which the wind is blowing. It is essential to know it to know the time.
- vane. It is the one that serves to indicate the direction in which the wind blows.
- Barometer. It's used to measure atmospheric pressure. This is another of the most important variables to measure. It tells us how the weather is changing, and thanks to it, we can know if the weather is going to improve or worsen.
I hope that with this information you can learn more about the weather station and its characteristics.
