How To Read A Weather Forecast

The weather forecast is often the most important factor in deciding what to wear. The weather also has an impact on outdoor activities. Knowing how to read a weather forecast is a skill that many people take for granted. However, some symbols and abbreviations are not intuitive at first glance.

Step 1

Scan the page to get a feel for how the forecast is laid out. Some forecasts are arranged in boxes running left to right, while others are composed of text that runs top to bottom.

Step 2

Find the forecast box with today's date. There will be two numbers. The higher number is the forecast maximum temperature for the day. The lower number is the minimum temperature.

Step 3

Take note of the forecast weather conditions. Symbols like sunshine or lightning are self-explanatory.

Step 4

Note the chance of precipitation, which is given as a percentage. If there is no mention of rain or snow, then chances are zero.

Step 5

Look at the next day's forecast. Pay attention to any departures from the current day's forecast.

Step 6

Look at the remainder of the forecast. Think about your weekly activities, and if the weather has a chance of altering those activities.