what do the meteorologists use to predict the weather?

Answer 1

Good question Megan. Here is the scientific answer. In order to predict the weather forecasters first need to know the current weather. This consists of temperature, pressure, humidity, and winds. These observations must be taken at the Earth's surface and through the atmosphere at the same time over the entire Earth. Those times 00:00 UT and 12:00 UT are called synoptic, meaning "seen at the same time". The next thing meteorologists will need are mathematical equations which can be stated as differential equations that are time dependent meaning that when they are integrated they produce "future" conditions of those same variables (temperature, winds, humidity, etc.). These equations are called the equation of state which relate pressure, density, and temperature; the equations of motion which relate the time rate of change of the components of the vector motion of the wind to the pressure gradients and Coriolis accelerations; the continuity equation, and others. Generally these equations reduce to 5 or 6 partial differential equations in 5 or 6 unknowns. The next thing the meteorologist does is build a forecast model which consists of ingesting the synoptic observations we mentioned above, analyzing them, and using them to produce the final forecast. Admittedly this is a pretty cursory look at the process but I believe it contains the essential ingredients in how the meteorologist goes about this business.

Answer 2

Modern forecasts use a combination of computer models and human instinct. You can see some of the major computer models at:
http://rap.ucar.edu/weather/model/

However it is important to remember that computer models are far from perfect. Weather forecasters keep track of the errors the models make and compile a database of what the model predicts and what actually happens. From this they can learn the weaknesses of models and make better forecasts. For this reason, human meteorologists continually make better forecasts than computers.

Also, local forecasters have the advantage of being able to walk outside and see if it looks like rain.

Answer 3

In most parts of the world they use satellite imagery and gathered data on wind speed and temp from surrounding areas.

In Oregon then just kind of spin a wheel and take a guess.

Answer 4

Models

Answer 5

Satellites

Answer 6

sattelite images that show the storms that are coming
pressure in the atmosphere to see what tempreture it will be or if it will rain (borometer)

Answer 7

c ball only joking sat elite

Answer 8

is your butt big?