Are you new to climate data? Ready to learn or review some of the basics?

This site will walk you through some of the basics to help you understand and explore climate data. In the table of contents on the left, you'll find information on:

instruments used to measure weather and climate

how weather observations relate to climate products

how climate scientists check the quality of observations

tools you can use for exploring climate data

Why does climate data matter? Lots of people check climate data to find information or help them make decisions. For example:

Folks who are planning outdoor events check climate normals data to help them choose a date when they can expect pleasant weather.

data to help them choose a date when they can expect pleasant weather. Ranchers, farmers, and outdoor-recreation businesses regularly monitor drought conditions to see if the environment has sufficient water for plants and animals.

conditions to see if the environment has sufficient water for plants and animals. Weather enthusiasts like to explore extreme storms and record-setting events.

storms and record-setting events. People who live near the coast consider how sea level rise might affect them.

might affect them. Students often consider the relationship between global temperature and greenhouse gases.

and gases. Water companies check precipitation and river levels to monitor water supplies.

To get started, click any page title on the left.