10. Introduction to Hand Analysis

Map analysis is still a large part of what a meteorologist does every single day. This larger concept of “map analysis” includes the drawing of contours of temperature, pressure, and height as well as analyzing fronts, troughs, ridges, etc. The guidelines contained in this chapter are a compilation of good rules of thumb and techniques for identifying many different meteorological phenomena on weather maps. You may not always physically draw out the contours or analyze fronts, but you will always need to be able to identify all of the different aspects of the weather to be able to conduct a weather discussion or doing research. Therefore, developing the skills of map analysis will serve you well throughout your meteorological career.

This set of guidelines will start with a description of hand analysis (e.g., the drawing of contours) on surface and upper-air weather maps. Then the discussion will turn to analyzing maps that are already contoured with the basic parameters, whether hand or computer drawn.

This chapter provides you with an introduction to the methods of synoptic map analysis. It is by no means an all-inclusive guide, but serves as a good outline on the proper techniques of analysis. You will be expected to refer to this information for general synoptic analysis techniques throughout your career.

10.1. Tools

There are a number of tools that are useful for conducting a successful hand analysis.

• Pencil

• Fine tip pens (black, blue, green, red, yellow, brown, purple, and orange)

• Colored pencils (blue, brown, green, red, purple, yellow)

  • including multiple shades of blue, green

• Good eraser

• Lots of patience

10.2. General Tip

The most important thing to remember when analyzing maps is that it requires time to do a good job. You are contouring values in a fluid; actual values may change quickly, but the gradient of values change more gradually.