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For
centuries weather observing tools consisted of the human
eye and the various  human
senses. Only within the last six centuries has the rudimentary technology
of weather observation been developed. The rain gauge, barometer, anemometer,
hygrometer and thermometer were all invented in the years between 1400
and 1700. These instruments, improved upon through the years, remain
basic observing tools of the National Weather Service and its network
of cooperative observers today. However, with the advent of the telegraph
system in the 1840's, the ability of meteorologists to simultaneously
make weather observations at many widely dispersed stations, develop
near real-time maps of weather systems, and then predict the future
course of observed weather phenomena experienced a quantum leap. Suddenly
meteorologists were able to chart the course of weather phenomena on
a near continent-wide basis. Since that time communications have improved
with the development of radio and telephone, new observing systems such
as radar and satellites have evolved, and ever more powerful computing
systems have become available to the meteorologist. Concurrently, this
has led to improved communication with the public and, in particular,
vastly improved warning capabilities. This section highlights the story
of some of these improvements and how the capabilities of the National
Weather Service to observe, predict, and communicate have evolved through
time.
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