By: Kyler Johnson/Gator Galaxy Staff
People rely on forecasts for just about everything in life, like parties or camping trips. Weather is a very tricky thing and is constantly changing; as you’re reading this it is changing. Weather never gets boring, because it is never the same. However, what happens when a beautiful forecast of 70 degrees and sunny doesn’t hold and it ends up storming? Most people say, “the weatherman lied,” but did the weatherman really lie?
Well, no. Weather forecasting is the process of using science and technology to predict what the weather will be like. At any given moment it could change. With every forecast make sure you’re reading the “fine print,” which are the small details people don’t typically read up on like, there being a 20 percent chance of storms or gusty winds. There can always be that little hidden detail in weather forecasts. Everyday, be sure to check your forecasts on websites like www.weather.gov. They are constantly updating the latest forecasts and don’t leave any details out.
Just think, approximately 25 years ago there was only a one or two day forecast. Now, we have seven to even 10 day forecasts. Also, weather forecasting has significantly improved over the past couple of decades because of new technology and newer research. Forecast models are a prime example of this. There are so many different forecast models available right now. You can view storm systems that are over 10 days out, or even temperatures three months from now. The closer you get to the day you’re looking at, the more accurate the forecast model will be. There are so many elements that go into your simple daily temperature forecast.
The next time you think about blaming the weatherman for the forecast, just think about all the hard work and time that goes into it. Also, be sure to always check those fine details so you can get the most accurate forecast possible and plan your day.
If you want to take up a new hobby, take up weather observing. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there are more than 8,000 NWS weather observers in the United States.
So this summer, check the forecasts frequently and keep an eye out for severe weather, it is always looming during the summer in Nebraska.
