What is the most important weather instrument?

Answer 1

I think the barometer because with it you can determine if a storm is coming or not and you have a good idea about how that will effect the rest of weather. However, if you are studying drought, it would more likely be a rain gauge that measured small amounts so they could record every drop. With everyone worrying about global warming I am sure most people would think a thermometer. Facing down a "Katrina" people want to know how fast the wind is going. Given all that, I don't know if there is just one! If it can be considered a weather instrument, I think it is the Doppler Radar. The Doppler Radar allows weather forcasters to "see" precise locations, direction and speed of movement of all types of weather systems, especially storms, wind speeds in the storm, rates of rainfall, and can even detect the "hook" echo of a tornado. With the tremendous dangers associated with hurricanes, tornadoes, AND even the hundreds of Spring and Fall violent thunderstorms, the Doppler Radar has to be the most important weather instrument.