Hobbies And Interests
Barometer
A barometer is an instrument that measures the pressure of the air. In the world of weather, high pressure indicates that the weather will be fair, while low pressure indicates that there will likely be precipitation. Watching the barometer, in addition to keeping an eye on visible weather changes, helps you to determine what the coming weather will be like. The barometer will begin to move well before the weather actually changes, giving you advanced warning.
Hygrometer
The job of a hygrometer is to measure the humidity present in the air. Humidity affects what the temperature feels like and the likelihood of precipitation. In the summer, when humidity is high, the temperature will feel warmer. Also, when precipitation falls, the humidity level is likely to be higher. Knowing the humidity, in combination with other factors, can help you understand what is going on with the weather outside.
Rain Gauge
After precipitation falls, news stations will report rainfall totals for specific areas. If you would like to know how much rain fell at your home, a rain gauge is an important part of your weather station. A rain gauge can be as simple as a tube with measurements marked off along the side. Once the rain stops falling, all you need to do is check the tube and empty it after you record the reading. You can also use any kind of container and take your measurement by inserting a ruler and measuring the accumulated water inside. A rain gauge can also measure snowfall more accurately than measuring it with a ruler, as drifting can occur on the ground.
Weather Vane
A weather vane, also called a wind vane, shows you the direction that the wind is blowing. For a weather vane to work properly, the two sides must be of unequal size, but of equal mass. Adding a compass to the weather vane ensures that you record the correct direction, if you are keeping track. In addition to being a key instrument in your weather station, weather vanes also serve as a decoration; these instruments are available in many different designs.
Anemometer
If you would like to keep track of the wind speed with your weather station, you need an anemometer. This instrument comes in several different styles; the most common features cups that capture the wind and spin the instrument to measure the speed. Some anemometers record the speed of the wind automatically, while others require that you watch the anemometer and count how many times the instrument rotates in a minute to you assess the wind speed.