Tim Vasquez

This fairly comprehensive book outlines each of the major weather maps and models in existence at the time the book was published (I read the second edition, 2008, so it didn't have the HRRR model, for example). Each map/model gets a two-page spread, where one page gives a summary of the map or model with a sidebar containing a few interesting tidbits of trivia, while the second page has several pictures as examples. Some of the pictures and photos aren't particularly impressive in black-and-white; a newer edition appears to correct this. Worthwhile if you're just starting to learn about weather and meteorology; the appendices make it worth keeping even when one has mastered the basics.

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LT Haiku:

Handbook for knowing
the various weather maps
one might encounter.… (meer)

The Weather Analysis and Forecasting Handbook is a fair introduction to weather systems. It would best be used as a study guide or supplemental reading to a meteorology course.

I can't rate it excellent because, in an effort to be more "readable," almost all of the math has been removed, which is noted just before the first chapter. But in the final chapter, the author points out that modeling future weather events is almost impossible without computers ("the first actual attempt at solving a prognosis ... took two years of hand calculations to carry a single case study forward six hours").

In its favor, though, are the precise (if sometimes terse) definitions of weather systems, including air masses and the underlying science behind their formation and movement. There are plentiful diagrams and photos throughout (even in black and white, almost every one conveys the important information clearly). Also included are forty pages of random weather concepts tossed into an extensive appendix. (There is also the mostly-functional index, which does not do well with explaining abbreviations.)

Storm spotters who learned of Tim Vasquez through his Storm Chasing Handbook may be interested in this title, but it's a little too advanced for the weekend spotter.… (meer)