Meteorological Measurements and Observations

Abstract

Why are atmospheric observations necessary? Geophysical and associated meteorological observations, and monitoring of the natural environment, are carried out for various reasons. They are used for the preparation of weather analysis in real time, the forecasts and warnings of natural disasters related to weather, water, and climate. Meteorological measurements and observations are used for the local operational activities that depend on time, such as flight-route operations at airports, construction works, transportation, agricultural activities, health, and others. Meteorological and climate data are important for research on climate and climate change. Meteorology has made significant progress in the quality and diversity of weather forecast services since the launch of the first meteorological satellites in 1957/1958 gave rise to the World Weather Watch (WWW) in 1963. Growing global temperature will cause a rise in sea level and is expected to increase the intensity of extreme weather events and to change the amount and mode of precipitation. But current societal challenges – due to the unfolding impacts of climate change – demand further evolution of the Earth observation network: an upgrading of the global space- and surface-based observing systems (Fig. 25.1) and the adoption of a new and integrated approach that incorporates recent scientific and technical advances.