scope:

Introduction

Today's meteorological data acquisition is based on a multitude of different observation techniques and platforms - from in situ measurements to global satellite remote sensing. Thus, classic weather stations continue to be indispensable, especially if continuous and reliable data with high spatial and time resolution is needed. This is especially the case if weather-dependent processes on smallest scale (micrometeorological processes) or the climate of a locally limited area (microclimate) shall be determined. This needs to be done in weather- and climate-dependent economic sectors such as agriculture and forestry, in order to evaluate pollution from the air, to calculate sound propagation and noise exposures at a location, to estimate emissions and seepage from landfills, to provide security of road traffic and non-commercial air traffic (commercial air traffic is controlled by the International Civil Aviation Organization, ICAO) [1]; in Germany, [2] has priority at aerodromes with instrument flight rules), but also in crisis management in the case of weather-related catastrophes, such as floods due to precipitation, to mention only the most important applications. Regardless of the foreseeable further technical progress, the description of the atmospheric state will also in the future remain incomplete and inadequate for some applications. Hence, there are no "redundant" weather stations. In fact, even "hobby stations" can become valuable sources of information for certain questions, provided that they meet certain minimum quality requirements.

This guideline describes the general requirements on a weather station, namely with respect to the measured physical values (air chemical measurements are not discussed), the installation, the sensors and data recording, the quality control, and maintenance. In addition to the general requirements, typical designs of weather stations are separately described according to application. Moreover, the most common measurement variables to be taken into account and the appropriate sensors are discussed in more detail in specific parts of guideline VDI 3786 [T1 to T9]. A general introduction to the measurement of meteorological parameters within the context of environmental questions can be found in [T1]. The performance characteristics (e.g. measurement uncertainty, etc.) are also explained there. In particular cases, visual observations [T7] may also be necessary, partly to identify events whose measurement involves much effort, partly to simply get an estimate.