Earthguide Online Classroom


Maximum temperature forecast






Minimum temperature forecast





U.S. maximum and minimum daily temperature forecasts Note that you are looking at forecasts which show modeled rather than actual surface temperatures. However, temperatures are usually representative if not accurate for particulaar locations. Source: National Weather Service - Graphical Forecasts, NOAA


Questions for discussion

  1. What controls the daily temperature pattern of the U.S.?

    • Does temperature vary with latitude? Why?

    • Does temperature vary with distance from the coast?


  2. Where is the daily temperature range greater - near coasts or in the interior of the continent?


  3. How does high elevation affect temperature? Consider the Rockies.


  4. How do the Great lakes affect temperature?


  5. Are there any temperature features that are particular to a passing weather system, and do not represent the climate?

    • How do climate and weather differ?



Related resources

THE IMAGE

  • Graphical Forecast
    "Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer."
    National Weather Service, NOAA

Take away concept

  • It is generally cooler at higher latitudes during the day and night.
  • The interior of the continent heats and cools more than coastal areas.
  • The oceans moderate coastal temperatures and reduce daily and seasonal temperature range.
  • Continental interiors experience greater daily and seasonal temperature range.
  • Areas of higher elevation are cooler during the day and night.
  • The Great Lakes are large enough to significantly impact regional temperatures.
  • Daily weather patterns can bring short-lived but extreme temperatures.