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How to Read Convective Outlook Charts

Every glider and flier should know how to read a convective outlook chart. These charts, released many times a day by the National Weather Service, tell how likely it is that severe weather events -- tornadoes, hail and other wind events -- will happen in a given area during a certain time frame. With this information you, as a gilder or plane flyer, can decide how much risk there is to fly during that time. You can then plan your outing accordingly.

Instructions

- 1
  Find the most recent chart available. Look in the legend box in the corner of the chart. Charts labeled "Day 1" are released at 1 a.m., 6 a.m., 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Charts labeled "Day 2" are released at 8:30 a.m. (7:30 a.m. daylight savings time) and 5:30 p.m. All times are Standard time. You can find these charts on the National Weather Service website.
- 2
  Determine the valid time period of the chart. Look in the legend box in the corner of the chart. Pay attention to the third and fourth line down, marked "From" and "Until." This gives you the valid time and date in military time of the chart. The term "1200Z" means 12 p.m. The date, which is written in month/date/year format without any slashes or spaces, tells you what days the chart is valid for. The chart will be valid from noon on one day to noon the next day.
- 3
  Understand the location of the chart and the outlook for that area. The chart outlines an area. This won't look like a circle but the area will be enclosed. The area may be colored or may simple be circled. One of three risk levels appear inside the area: SLGT, MDT or HIGH. SLGT means there is a slight risk of hail, tornado or other wind events. MDT means there is a moderate risk and HIGH means there is a high risk of these events happening. "SEE TEXT," which may also appear in the space, means that SLGT was considered but not warranted. Notes will accompany the chart.

Aviation