DETAILED FIELD TRIP REPORT TO A WEATHER STATION
1. Introduction
On (insert date), our class conducted a field trip to a weather station to learn how different
elements of weather and climate are measured in a real environment. The visit aimed to
give us practical experience with meteorological instruments and help us understand how
weather data is collected, analyzed, and used in forecasting.
This report presents the activities we carried out, explanations received, the instruments
observed, and the skills gained from the fieldwork.
2. Objectives of the Field Trip
The main goals of the trip were:
1. To observe the general setup of a standard weather station.
2. To identify and understand the functions of different weather instruments.
3. To learn how weather elements such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind, and
pressure are measured.
4. To understand how data is recorded, analyzed, and used in making weather forecasts.
5. To connect classroom knowledge with practical field experience.
3. Pre-Field Activity: Briefing and Orientation
Before we began the practical session, we were welcomed by a meteorology officer who
gave us a detailed orientation. The officer explained:
- The purpose of weather stations in agriculture, aviation, disaster preparedness, water
management, and climate monitoring.
- The difference between a manual weather station and an Automatic Weather Station
(AWS).
- The need for careful handling of instruments and moving calmly inside the station.
- Why instruments must be placed in specific positions for accurate measurements.
- The international standards used by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
4. Presentation of Instruments and Demonstrations
4.1 Temperature Measurement Instruments (Inside a Stevenson Screen)
a) Maximum Thermometer – Measures the highest temperature of the day.
b) Minimum Thermometer – Records the lowest temperature reached at night.
c) Wet and Dry Bulb Thermometers – Used to calculate relative humidity.
All these instruments are kept in a Stevenson Screen to protect them from direct sunlight
while allowing free air circulation.
4.2 Rain Gauge
Measures rainfall in millimeters. It consists of a funnel, container, and measuring cylinder.
Readings are taken every morning at 9:00 a.m.
4.3 Barometer
Measures atmospheric pressure. The station used an aneroid barometer which has a metal
chamber that expands or contracts depending on pressure changes.
4.4 Wind Vane and Anemometer
Wind Vane – Shows the direction from which the wind is blowing.
Anemometer – Measures wind speed using rotating cups.
4.5 Sunshine Recorder
The Campbell–Stokes recorder measures the duration of sunshine using a glass sphere that
burns a trace on a card.
4.6 Evaporation Pan (Class A Pan)
Used to measure water loss through evaporation. Readings depend on temperature,
humidity, and wind.
4.7 Automatic Weather Station (AWS)
A modern system with sensors for temperature, humidity, pressure, wind, and rainfall.
Automatically records and sends data to the national meteorology center.
5. Data Collection and Recording Process
- Readings are taken at specific times.
- Data is written in logbooks or stored electronically.
- Errors are checked and corrected.
- Data is analyzed for weather forecasting.
- Reports are shared through media and disaster management institutions.
6. Findings and Skills Gained
We learned:
- Weather measurement requires accuracy and discipline.
- Instruments must be correctly positioned for reliable readings.
- Automatic systems improve accuracy and reduce human error.
- Weather data is essential for agriculture, aviation, and disaster management.
7. Challenges Observed
- Some instruments require frequent maintenance.
- Automatic stations depend on electricity and stable networks.
- Manual data collection may involve errors.
- Limited funding affects modernization.
8. Conclusion
The field trip was a valuable learning experience. It deepened our understanding of
meteorological instruments and the importance of weather data in daily life. The visit
helped us apply classroom theory to real practice.