A weather station is a land-based or marine facility equipped with instruments designed to measure and record atmospheric conditions. The data collected is essential for weather forecasting, climate research, environmental monitoring, agriculture, aviation, and disaster management. By continuously monitoring environmental parameters, weather stations help scientists and meteorologists analyze weather patterns and long-term climate trends.
Measurements typically include air temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, solar radiation, and precipitation. To ensure accuracy, wind sensors are installed in open areas with minimal obstructions, while temperature and humidity sensors are shielded from direct sunlight (insolation). Manual weather stations record observations at least once daily, whereas automated weather stations capture and transmit data at least once every hour, often in real time.
- Thermometer – Measures air and sea surface temperature
- Barometer – Measures atmospheric pressure
- Hygrometer – Measures humidity
- Anemometer – Measures wind speed
- Pyranometer – Measures solar radiation
- Rain Gauge – Measures precipitation amounts
