In theory Meterology should help our ability to predict weather conditions including snow, rains and floods based on seasonal cycles using observation, measurement and atmospheric conditions.

Red Sky at Night …………………

Old wives or gardeners tales and sayings such as rain before seven fine by eleven, wet on St Swithens day rain for 40 days, wet seaweed, cones opening in wet weather etc are based on observation and experience. However hightech is taking over with models used to predict the long term climate around the Earth.

Meteorological Equipment & Instruments

• Gardeners rely on the thermometer for soil and air temperature. A max min thermometer will help measure/control night time temperatures.
• Commercial growers will have sophisticated humidity meters to assist controlling growing conditions.
• Anometers are used for measuring wind speed but I am happy enough with a simple wind vane in the garden.
• There is now a plethora of digital weather stations for home and garden use

Flood Warning

Professional weather forecasts and warnings are important as they forewarn gardeners of potential problems. I usually react to them just too late not just in time.