Continuing the series of organizing an amateur weather station, we will look at some other instruments you should have.

Rain Gauge...Any straight container can be used for making a rain gauge. Rainfall is measured for any given period of time and is the depth of the rain falling on a horizontal surface during that period of time. If the container has straight sides and the same area of cross section is exposed to the falling rain, the depth of the catch measured in inches and tenths may be taken as the amount of rain which has fallen.

Locating a site for the raingauge is important. The site should be a few feet above the ground and away from buildings and other obstructions. If you purchase a raingauge, there are many stores which supply a small plastic raingauge. These vary in price from $10 to $50. These gauges have calibrations on the side to read the amount of rainfall and can be mounted on a fence post.

Wind Vane...The wind direction can be determined from the flow of smoke, or a flag, or even the unscientific method, wet finger? The wind vane can be easily made from tin, wood, or other material. The ends should be balanced and it should swing freely on a central pivot. You may purchase an ornamental wind vane if you chose so. The wind vane should be placed where it is least affected by buildings and tall trees. The direction indicator should be lined up with a campass.

Anemometer...This instrument is used to measure the speed of the wind. This can be built at home. but they are seldom satisfactory.

Maximum/Minimun Thermometer...The thermometer registers the high and low reading from the last setting, and can be purchased for about $25 and up.

Instrument Shelter...To get the best results from your thermometers, (man-min), or any other instruments your acquire, should be kept outdoors in a shelter. A simple shelter can be built from a couple of window shutters and some wood. The shutters form the sides. The back, top and bottom can be made from ordinary wood. On the front of the shelter, should have a hinged door. The opening should face north, away from the sun. It then should be painted white inside and out.

Weather Log...Don't trust to memory when making an observation, write it down. You should keep a weather log to record your observation. This log can be a simple or as complete as you want it. Try to take your observations at the same time every day, whether it be once or twice a day.

Entries which can be made in the log include: sky condition; partly clear; partly cloudy; cloudy; temperature; (max-min); and current temperature. Pressure; wind speed and direction. R-Rainfall and amount; S-Snowfall and amount; E=Sleet; F-Fog; F+ is Heavy fog, Visibility 1/4 mile or less; ZR-Freezing Rain; L-Drizzle. Record the time of the observations and also add any remarks in your own words for the type of weather which has occurred.

Amateur Weather Station Continued. Part IV

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© 1998 Charles A. Giannetta

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