The Surface Station Model

1
The Surface Station Model
2
The Surface Station Model (cont.)

• Surface data contained in METAR reports are
  plotted in a specific organized pattern known as
  the surface station model.
• The consistent organization of the station model
  makes it easier for the meteorologist analyzing a
  surface weather map to locate and to identify
  important information.

3
Sample Surface Station Model
4
Complete Surface Station Model
5
Typical Surface Station Model Based on METAR Data
6
Sky Cover Symbols
SKC or CLR
FEW
SCT
BKN
OVC
7
Wind Speed and Direction

• Wind speed and wind direction are plotted using a
  wind arrow.
• The wind direction is plotted with the wind arrow
  indicating the direction of the wind blowing into
  the station circle.

8
Wind Speed

• Wind Speed is indicated by the number of half
  barbs, whole barbs, and flags.
• The wind speed is indicated by the sum of the
  wind speeds represent by the half barbs, whole
  barbs and flags.

9
Wind Speed
The top of the arrow is not usually plotted any
more to save space.
indicates a wind from the south (i.e 180 degrees)
10
Wind Speed
A half barb indicates 5 knots.
11
Wind Speed (cont.)
A whole barb indicates 10 kts.
12
Wind Speed (cont.)
A flag indicates 50 knots.
13
Wind Speed (cont.)
Indicates a wind speed of 50105 65 knots.
14
Wind Speed (cont.)
15
Three Hour Pressure Change Characteristic
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Low Cloud Symbols
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Middle Cloud Symbols
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High Cloud Symbols
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Present Weather Symbols
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Online Symbols

• A good source of information about the symbols
  used in the surface station model is
• http//www.shr.noaa.gov/jetstream/synoptic/wxmaps.
  htm

21
Sample Surface Station Model
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Decode and Plot the Following METAR Report

• KOKC 301152Z 10006KT 6 SM TSRA BR SCT033CB
  OVC110 13/11 A3028 RMK AO2 TSB1059RAB1059 PRESRR
  SLP251 OCNK LTGICCA NE TS OVHD MOV E P0010 60010
  70029 T01280111 10144 20128 53022