Based on the analysis of the provided weather map, here are the answers to the six questions:
1.
According to the weather map shown, what is the weather like currently in Massachusetts/Burlington?
The area around Massachusetts/Burlington is colored green. According to the map key, green indicates a low-pressure system. Low-pressure systems are typically associated with cloudy, rainy, or stormy weather. Therefore, the current weather in Massachusetts/Burlington is likely cloudy and possibly rainy.
2.
What will the weather be like over the next few days in Massachusetts/Burlington?
A warm front (represented by a red line with half-circles) is located to the south of Massachusetts and is moving northward. As this warm front passes over the area, it will bring warmer temperatures, increased humidity, and often precipitation. Therefore, the weather over the next few days will likely be warmer and more humid, with possible rain or storms as the front moves through.
3.
What is the weather like currently in Houston, Texas?
Houston, Texas is located in an area colored yellow on the map. Yellow indicates high pressure according to the map key. High-pressure systems are generally associated with clear skies and fair weather. Therefore, the current weather in Houston, Texas is likely sunny and clear.
4.
What will the weather be like over the next few days in Houston, Texas?
A cold front (represented by a blue line with triangles) is located to the northwest of Houston and is moving southeastward. When a cold front passes over an area, it typically brings cooler temperatures, a drop in humidity, and sometimes brief, sharp showers or thunderstorms. Therefore, the weather over the next few days will likely become cooler and drier, with a possibility of some showers as the front moves through.
5.
Denver, Colorado is experiencing warm and humid weather. What type of air mass is most likely causing that weather?
Warm and humid weather is characteristic of a maritime tropical (mT) air mass. These air masses originate over warm ocean waters, such as the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean, and bring warm, moist air when they move inland. Given the location of Denver and the description of the weather, a maritime tropical air mass is the most likely cause.
6.
Los Angeles, California is experiencing hot and dry weather. What type of air mass is most likely causing that weather?
Hot and dry weather is characteristic of a continental tropical (cT) air mass. These air masses originate over hot, dry land areas, such as the deserts of the southwestern United States or northern Mexico. They bring very hot and dry conditions. Given the location of Los Angeles and the description of the weather, a continental tropical air mass is the most likely cause.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of using a weather map worksheet.
