In this section you will find materials that support the implementation of EarthComm, Section 2: Weather Basics.
- To learn more about tracking weather events over time using a weather map, visit the following web site:
National Weather Service, NOAA
Map of the United States showing current weather forecasts. Click on your region for a more specific forecast.
- To identify the weather station nearest to your community , visit the following web site:
Locate Weather Observation Station Record, NOAA
Search for the weather station nearest to your community.
To identify the state climatologist for your state, visit the following web site:
American Association of State Climatologists, AASC
Click on your state to identify the state climatologist for your state.
To learn more about this topic, visit the following web sites:
How and Why Warm Air Rises
Cloud Development and Stability, Florida State University
Reviews the mechanisms that cause air to rise. Includes a graphic that illustrates convective uplift, orographic uplift, frontal wedging, and convergence.
Air Masses and Fronts
Air Masses, NOAA
Overview of air masses and fronts.
Air Masses, NOAA
Explains how air masses form, the principle classifications that influence the continental United States, and the formation of fronts between them.
Characteristics of Air Parcels and Air Masses, NASA
Examines the characteristics of air masses, the lifting or rising of an air mass, air mass classification, and directions of movement of the major air masses.
How Clouds Form
Reviews the conditions surrounding cloud formation and also explains how precipitation is "released" from clouds.
Understanding Clouds and Fog, USA Today
Reviews how and where clouds typically form. Includes some graphics and additional links to help understand clouds.
Types of Clouds
Cloud Classification and Characteristics, NOAA
Examines the classification system for classifying clouds. Provides example pictures of each type.
Cloud Types, Windows to the Universe
Click on the cloud groups or cloud type of interest to view an image and relevant text.
Weather and the Water Cycle
The Water Cycle, NASA
Examines the role of water in the Earth system, including elements of weather.