Instruments that measure and predict the weather seem like something out of a science fiction tale, but they’re not. There are devices available that measure wind speed and direction, monitor temperatures, measure atmospheric pressure, and as in rain gauges, measure rainfall amounts. All of these items can be purchased separately or combined to create your own weather station. Let’s take a look at what each one does.

Standard eight inch rain gauges consist of a receiving funnel, a measuring tube and a measuring stick. It is usually supported on a wood or metal post or stand. The measuring stick is marked in tenths of an inch, hundreds of an inch and whole. To get an accurate rainfall measurement, you simply place the measuring stick inside the measuring tube and read the amount on the stick.

A device used to measure the speed of the wind is called an anemometer, or wind gauge. In its most basic form, it is a cup anemometer, consisting of four hemispherical shafts mounted horizontally on a vertical shaft. Wind gauges can be separated into two broad groups: hand-held and fixed. A hand-held anemometer will typically only display the current wind strength. A fixed wind gauge measures the wind speed at a given location in addition to providing historical measurements, such as maximum gust and average wind speed.

A thermometer is, of course, used to measure the temperature. Thermometers have progressed tenfold since the days of a simple mercury thermometer. Now wireless is hugely popular, since from the comfort of your favorite armchair, you can check the current, minimum or maximum temperatures and have it displayed in Celsius or Fahrenheit. A rain gauge thermometer is also available that takes temperature readings as well as a rainfall measurement.

A barometer measures the atmospheric pressure and can be used to see if the pressure is falling or rising or is steady; thus providing a good indicator of the weather in the near future. Barometers are so much more than a weather instrument, however. They can truly be a work of art. Ornamental barometers add beauty and elegance to the walls of many homes. As with most things, technology has caught up with barometers too, so digital barometers are now widely available and just as in the instruments above, can be used to measure atmospheric changes; aiding in a more accurate picture of the coming weather.

A weather vane’s job, simply put, is to measure and gauge from which direction the wind is blowing, which is a key element to any weather forecast. As with a barometer, they can also be a beautiful addition to your garden or pergola roof top. There are an almost unlimited range of designs styles to choose from; the more popular styles include birds, animals, sports and others. There are craftsmen out there who can provide you with your very own hand crafted, specialty weather vane.

Whether bundled as a central weather station or purchased separately, all of these weather recording instruments are widely available. Whatever the reasons behind your desire to record the weather, such as a hobby to record rainfall data through the use of rain gauges or a daily occurrence as part of your profession, enjoy the weather whatever may come your way.

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