WHAT IS THE FORECAST?

•  The weather forecast tells us what the temperature and air conditions are likely to be outside in the near  future. There is a wide variety of weather, from sunny to stormy and warm to cool. It can be rainy or cloudy or windy. Listening to or watching the weather forecast can help us be prepared so we know what to wear. If weather conditions will be severe, like snow, a storm, or a hurricane, getting information ahead of time can help us prepare so we can stay safe.

• A meteorologist is a person whose job it is to forecast the weather. There are many tools available now that help   the meteorologist do his/her job.   A common tool for getting an accurate measurement of the temperature is a thermometer. A high temperature probably means plenty of sunshine for everyone.

• When the weather is rainy, a meteorologist can use a rain gauge to get numerical data about how much rain is   falling outdoors. If you are lucky, you may be able to see a rainbow if the sun comes out while the last of the rain is still sprinkling from the sky.

• Wind brings us weather because it blows clouds from one place to another. Therefore, it is helpful to know from which direction the wind is blowing. A wind vane can provide this information so meteorologists know what is coming. Weather forecasts are not always right, but they get more accurate all the time.

Name:__________________________________

Answer the following questions based on the reading passage. Don’t forget to go back to the passage whenever necessary to find or confirm your answers.

1)  What is a weather forecast?

2)   What is a person whose job it is to forecast the weather called?   

3)Name one weather tool and tell what it is used for.

4)  What is your favorite kind of weather? Why?

5)   Do you think the job of a meteorologist is difficult or easy? Explain your thinking.