Interpreting Surface Weather Maps

March 5, 2024 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm (Eastern)

Your marine forecast should always start with an understanding of the current large-scale weather pattern and how it will evolve over time. Surface weather maps provide this information, but use a confusing array of symbols, meteorological shorthand, timekeeping systems, and color schemes. Learning to interpret surface weather maps will improve your forecasting skills and increase the safety and comfort of your outings. 

• Barometric pressure 
• Low pressure troughs & high pressure ridges
• Stationary, cold, warm, and occluded fronts
• Low pressure systems 
• Tropical cyclones 
• Meteorological time 
• Wind barbs 

• Color shading & contours