Weather Maps and Symbols

Meteorologists use weather maps and tools to help them see weather patterns and forecast weather.

A weather map is a map where we can find different symbols to help us see how the weather is in different parts of the country.

There are different types of maps, and they give us different information. This is a Doppler Map. It´s a map taken using a Doppler radar. It can give you different information, such as rainy areas, fronts, and air pressure.

Pressure and Temperature Maps use different colors to tell us the different temperatures in different parts of a country. The color key helps us know what each color means.

A Cold Front symbol shows the edge of a mass of cool air.

A Warm Front symbol shows the edge of a warmer air mass.

A Stationary Front means neither the warm air or the cool air are moving very much.

How many fronts can you identify on this map?

A large “H” means an area of higher pressure. Higher pressure usually means nice, clear weather.

Which state has high pressure? Mississipi AlabamaGeorgia Oklahoma Kansas Texas Colorado Lousiana Arkansas Kentuky Florida S. Carollina N. Carolina

A large “L” means an area of lower pressure. Lower pressure usually means clouds, rain, or snow.

How many “Lows” and “Highs” are on this map?