WEATHER FORECASTS

Northern Advocate, 27 March 1937, Page 4

WEATHER FORECASTS

The value of weather forecasts was amply demonstrated this week, when the Meteorological Office sent out warning of an approaching storm, which might be expected to reach New Zealand during the Easter holidays. In view of the fact that people had planned all kinds of excursions, some involving journeys by launch and yacht, the warning was of first-rate importance. Though “set fair” seemed to be the expectation in Northland on Thursday, the information received by the Meteorological Office suggested that very rough conditions would prevail. Thus, the issuing of a warning placed upon the people themselves responsibility for any loss or inconvenience they might suffer if they ignored the forecast. Yesterday’s heavy rain, accompanied by a strong gale during last night, and the watery conditions today, proved the correctness of the forecast, despite the fact that the weather has not been as bad as was exjjected. That, however, is of minor importance. What does matter is the fact that, with the increased opportunitiees, for obtaining advice from far distances, it is now possible for*the Government Meteorologist to keep the people of the Dominion advised as to , the movements of storm areas. This, with the facility which radio provides for the frequent distribution of forecasts, is changing t(he whole outlook, of those whose busieness or pleasure is dependent upon the weather. In this matter New Zealand has lagged behind many countries, where weather forecasting has been one of the most important undertakings for many years, but it may be confidently expected that a new era is opening. ■ -