What is a weather forecast?
The weather forecast tells us what the weather will be like for the next couple of days.
By examining satellite images and other weather indicators, meteorologists are able to tell us what they think is going to happen.
Knowing what the weather will be like is handy for everyone. It means that we can plan picnics and beach journeys for days that will be sunny and wear rain coats on days when we know it will rain. But forecasting the weather has an even more important role than that.
Forecasting and saving lives
Meteorologists save thousands of lives around the world every year. They are able to see when extreme weather such as hurricanes, storms and floods are on their way and can warn people in advance to prepare for the worst.
In places where tornados are common, the meteorologists work is very important to the people who live in the area. Meteorologists are now able to warn residents about an impending tornado up to one hour before it hits.