Download Understanding weather maps

Understanding Synoptic
Charts
A synoptic chart is another name for a
weather map.
It is a summary of the weather
conditions happening across the earth’s
surface at a particular point in time.
It gives information about air pressure,
wind speed and direction, as well as
rainfall.
Understanding Synoptic
Charts
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Synoptic charts are helpful in predicting the weather we
are likely to experience over the next few days.
Being able to understand weather maps
is helpful in many ways.
For example, it helps to plan our fun
activities (like going to the beach and
playing sport) as well as work activities (for example farmers
and pilots).
Isobars

Lines that join places of equal pressure.
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Air pressure is measured in hectopascals (hPa).
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Isobars are usually drawn at intervals of 2
hectopascals.
Wind direction and strength

Shown using lines with small barbs or tails.
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Winds are named according to the direction FROM which
they blow. For example, a southerly blows from the south.
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Winds are strongest when isobars are close together.
Low pressure systems
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Also known as cyclones.
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They are associated with unstable conditions: cloudy skies,
rain and relatively strong winds.
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Air pressure decreases towards the centre in a low pressure
system.
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Air flows in a clockwise direction towards the centre of the
low pressure system (in the southern hemisphere)
High pressure systems

Also known as anticyclones.

They are associated with stable conditions: gentle winds,
clear skies and little chance of rain.
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Air pressure increases towards the centre in a high pressure
system.
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Air flows out from the high pressure system in an anti
clockwise direction (in the southern hemisphere)
Cold front

This forms when a mass of cold air overtakes a slower
moving mass of warm air. The warm air is forced to rise and
become unstable.

As a cold front passes over an area, the temperature is
likely to drop, rain may occur and the wind direction may
change.
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When compared with low pressure systems, highs tend to cover a
greater area, move more slowly and have a longer life.

When interpreting weather maps it is important to remember that
weather systems tend to move from:
―
―
west to east across southern Australia
east to west across northern Australia.
Examples of
synoptic
charts

Other ways to determine wind
speed
Where isobars are close
together, wind speed will
be greater, likewise when
isobars are further apart
wind speeds are calmer.
Compare these……
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