Science Common Sense

1828 - What is the process of analyzing changes in weather systems using observations and satellite cloud maps?

The process is called "nowcasting." Here's a simplified explanation:

1. Observations: People on the ground observe the weather and report it to weather centers.
2. Radar and Satellites: Satellites in space and radar systems on Earth take pictures of clouds and track weather patterns.
3. Cloud Maps: These pictures and data are used to create maps of clouds, which help forecasters see where the weather is going.
4. Analysis: Weather experts look at these maps and observations to understand how the weather is changing.
5. Forecast: They use this information to predict what the weather will be like in the next few hours or days.

By analyzing these changes, meteorologists can warn people about severe weather, like storms or heavy rain, and help keep us safe.