Forecast Check-List

Here is a check-list that you can refer to when making your forecasts. Print it and refer to it often.

Are there any fronts at the surface in your forecast region, or to the west of your forecast region?

Is there sufficient moisture at 850 mb for precipitation to occur?

If there is moisture available, is there a forcing mechanism to lift it?

Are there any short waves at 700 mb?

Is there vorticity at 500 mb?

Is the jet stream at 300 mb positioned for development?

Will cloud cover play an important role in your temperature forecast? (Satellite or Surface maps)

Will temperature advection play an important role in your temperature forecast?

Some Forecasting Hints:

1. Weather such as clouds, precipitation, and fronts tend to move west to east
across the United States.

2. Cloudy skies during the day (night) tend to keep temperatures lower (higher).

3. If a cold (warm) front passes through your area temperatures may drop (rise).