What is the primary focus of meteorology?

Meteorology is the scientific study of Earth's atmosphere, its processes, and phenomena, primarily focusing on weather forecasting and understanding atmospheric dynamics.

How do meteorologists predict the weather?

Meteorologists use various tools, including radar, satellites, weather balloons, and ground observations. This data feeds into complex computer models to simulate atmospheric conditions and forecast future weather.

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place (e.g., today's temperature, rain). Climate describes the average weather patterns and conditions over a long period, typically 30 years or more.

What causes severe weather events like thunderstorms or tornadoes?

Severe weather results from specific atmospheric instabilities, such as warm, moist air rising rapidly, interacting with differing wind speeds and directions (wind shear), and sufficient lift mechanisms to trigger strong updrafts.