Analysis of time sections

Streamline analysis

Correlation of wind and weather

Weather distribution charts and analysis

Surface chart-isobaric analysis

24-hour pressure change charts and analysis

Upper-air charts and analysis

A rational approach to analyzing the weather in any region depends on (1) the objectives of the analysis, (2) the type and quality of the observa-tions, and (3) the space and time distribution of the observations. So far, we have discussed point (2) and have seen that the effect of local topography, diurnal variations, cumulus con-vection, and small-scale perturbations in the tropics outweigh the effects of the large-scale weather patterns. Also, weather reports are scattered, often so widely that whole synoptic systems can be situated between stations and will escape notice unless satellite pictures are available. For these reasons, a somewhat different approach to analysis is taken in the tropics.

Tropical analysis consists of a complete and detailed analysis of the broad-scale synoptic features as presented on the surface and upper-air charts and, furthermore, of more localized and specialized features as they appear on time sections, low- and high-level streamline charts, 24-hour pressure change charts, and weather distribution charts.