HOW METEOROLOGISTS PREDICT AND MEASURE WIND
When predicting future weather, meteorologists rely on a variety of tools to collect extensive data about the atmosphere. Satellites can track the motion of clouds by producing a series of images. From this information, forecasters can predict where the winds will travel next. Many instruments can be used to collect data about wind. Cup anemometers are tools that rotate at rates proportional to the speed of wind. To achieve this, specially designed conical cups are attached to the instrument’s axle for the wind to blow into. As this happens, the cups rotate. Because wind intensity can change quickly in short periods of time, it’s measured as the average speed and direction of wind over a ten-minute period. Wind is defined as a gale when an average speed of 39 miles per hour is achieved in this period.