The Forecaster's Cookbook
Meteogram Analysis and Interpretation

• Check the model run time. This is the same as the initial hour on the meteogram time axis.
  
  
• Make sure the meteogram is for the correct location.
  - If using the AFWA meteogram for the MM5, AVN, NOGAPS, or MRF, use the interactive point/click method or enter an ICAO to get as close to the interest point as possible.
  - If using the EMC ETA-model meteogram (CONUS only), select a "star" nearest to the interest location or use the station identifier number in the URL line of your browser.
  
  
• Analyze the surface graphs and graph stack.
  - Check the trend of individual variables.
  - Look for relationships between the variables.
  - Recognize the units used for each variable.
  
  
• Analyze the time-height chart.
  - Check the trends and relationship with the surface variables.
  - Check which way the time axis is oriented and know what it means.
  - Time axis same as the surface graph stack: vertical profile similar to a sounding.
  - Time axis reversed to the surface graph stack: a trajectory effect is implied.
  
  
• Interpret the meteogram as a whole.
  - Surface graph stack.
  - Time-height chart.
  - Infer the progression of weather systems past a point.
  - Develop the point forecast for your mission using the model forecast clouds, precipitation, temperature, pressure, and winds.
  - Determine the potential for severe weather during the mission time frame.
  
  
• Caveats to remember.
  - Data is valid for a single point only.
  - Data is valid for the grid point nearest to the meteogram location.
  - Data has no statistical enhancement like other forms of guidance do.
  - May not be corrected to the actual terrain surface when the model surface differs from real life.