Book 7, Question 72
Why Do Weather Apps Show Different Numbers?
Weather apps show different numbers because they use different computer models and data.
Two weather apps can show different numbers for the same time and place. That is because they can use different computer models, different weather stations, and different update times. A forecast is an educated estimate, not magic.
Watch the videoWatch on YouTubeSee the series on Amazon
Quick answers
How do models work?
Models split the sky into a grid of forecast points. More grid points give more detail.
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 7
More fun facts
- Weather forecasts use computer models that predict how the air will move and change over time.
- Some models cover the whole Earth, and others cover just one region.
- Models split the sky into a grid of forecast points. More grid points give more detail.
- Rows of supercomputers are needed to run forecast models.
- Two of NOAA's weather supercomputers can each do 12.1 quadrillion calculations a second.
- NOAA combines many models into one forecast called the National Blend of Models.
Questions kids ask
What is a weather model?
A computer program that predicts how the air will move and change.
Why do forecasts use supercomputers?
Weather models need huge numbers of calculations to predict the weather.