Reading a cloud cover chart primarily involves interpreting symbols and patterns that represent the extent of cloudiness in the sky. Cloud cover is typically depicted using a circle, often found within a weather station model, where different levels of shading or fill indicate the amount of sky obscured by clouds. The interpretation is fairly intuitive.
Understanding Cloud Cover Symbols
The core of a cloud cover chart uses a filled circle to represent cloud coverage. The larger the portion of the circle that is filled in, the greater the cloud coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of how cloud cover is typically displayed:
- Clear Skies: An entirely empty circle represents clear skies, meaning no cloud cover is present.
- Few Clouds: A small portion of the circle might be filled in, indicating that there are very few clouds in the sky.
- Scattered Clouds: A more significant, but not full, portion of the circle filled in means the sky is showing scattered clouds.
- Broken Clouds: The circle is mostly filled in, leaving only a small portion empty, suggesting broken clouds, which means that more than half of the sky is covered.
- Overcast: A completely filled circle represents overcast skies, meaning the entire sky is covered by clouds.
Practical Insights
- Weather Forecasts: Cloud cover charts are crucial for weather forecasting as cloud cover affects temperature, precipitation, and sunlight.
- Outdoor Activities: Understanding these charts can help you plan outdoor activities, knowing whether you can expect clear skies or overcast conditions.
- Aviation: Pilots rely on cloud cover charts to understand weather conditions for safe flying.
Using the Station Model
According to the reference, station models use a circle as a "pie chart" to display cloud coverage. The portion of the circle that is filled in directly correlates with the amount of cloud coverage.
| Cloud Cover Description | Symbol Representation in Station Model |
|---|---|
| Clear | Empty Circle |
| Few | Small Portion Filled |
| Scattered | Medium Portion Filled |
| Broken | Most of Circle Filled |
| Overcast | Entire Circle Filled |
This straightforward system makes cloud cover charts very easy to understand, providing a quick and clear view of the sky condition at a specific location.
