Weatherflow has been installing weather stations for over 20 years. We now own and operate the largest professional grade mesoscale observing network (mesonet) in the United States, including the nation’s only mesonet focused on the highly variable coastal zone. WeatherFlow’s weather station network includes hundreds of weather stations, all based on a mix of proprietary technology and best in class sensors that help make it the most reliable such network in the world.
Our primary network is robust and effective precisely because we depend on the data. We provide our customers with data and decision tools (apps, etc) and our customers depend on us to inform better decisions. Maintaining the highest quality mesonet(s) means tackling the many challenges involved, including (but hardly limited to):
- Designing and deploying the best power efficient, durable and reliable hardware -purpose-built data loggers; best in class sensors; independent power; reliable communication infrastructure.
- Identifying optimal siting locations and obtaining permissions & permits; utilizing the most appropriate mounting structures
- Ensuring successful station installation and ongoing maintenance with our well trained and experienced team and proven methodology
WeatherFlow engineers begin with the highest quality observing equipment, obtained from the top manufacturers in the U.S. and across the globe, selected specifically for its ability to perform in harsh environments. We customize the equipment as required to optimize its performance – maximizing durability, reducing power consumption, improving data collection capability, and ensuring efficient communications with the Weatherflow network.
All of WeatherFlow’s stations contain sensors to record wind speed, wind direction, air temperature, and barometric pressure. Many stations also monitor other parameters including relative humidity, rain accumulation, rain rate, visibility, soil temperature, sea surface temperature, surface currents, wave heights, and more.
When planning the design and installation of a new mesonet, we use a process that has been refined over the years and is focused on two factors: the meteorological conditions found in the area, and our client’s operational requirements. The first step is always to research the existing observing assets in the area. If a high quality, reliable station is already in place, we don’t repeat it, leading to the most cost-effective solution for the customer.
The next step is a thorough meteorological study of the area, reviewing not only the predominant conditions in the area but those that have the most operational impact on the customer. We also look at the meteorological variability of the area – how much do conditions vary over time and from location to location. This allows us to design a sensing strategy that is customized and appropriate to the weather conditions and variability.
WeatherFlow stations and mesonets boast an enviable reputation for ruggedness and reliability, due in large part to our seasoned team of highly skilled field engineers. Our engineers carry out the installation and ongoing maintenance for 100% of our stations, ensuring that the proper equipment and procedures are used at every step of the way. In repeated instances varying from hurricanes to winter storms, our stations have stayed online while nearby official observing sites have gone dark, a testament to the level of skill and attention to detail our team has developed over many years.
Our field engineers and tech reps conduct periodic preventive maintenance, while station data is monitored closely for multiple indicators of hardware or communications problems, triggering emergent repair work as required.
