96 Nature in Recreation 



THE BAROMETER 



This instrument is of little use and may actually give you wrong informa- 

 tion unless you consult it regularly and keep a record of its readings. 



The barometer contains a small metal box from which the air has been 

 removed. The sides of the box cave in more or less from the pressure of the 

 air on the outside of the box. The air pressure constantly varies, and is called 

 barometric pressure. The side of the box is connected to a needle that moves 

 back and forth registering the changes in barometric pressure. Each time 

 you read the barometer you should tap the glass lightly in case the needle 

 has stuck. Write the reading down and set the extra needle right over the 

 moving needle. This is so that the next time you read the barometer you 

 can tell at a glance whether it has moved up or down. 



A Rising Barometer 



A rapid rise indicates unsettled weather. 



A gradual rise means settled weather. 



A rise with dry air and cold increasing, in the summer indicates wind 

 from the northward, and if rain has fallen better weather may be expected. 



A rise with moist air and low temperature, indicates wind and rain from 

 the northward. 



A rise with southerly wind, indicates fine weather. 



A Steady Barometer 



With dry air and normal temperature, indicates continuance of fine 

 weather. 



A Falling Barometer 



A rapid fall indicates stormy weather. 



A rapid fall with westerly wind, indicates stormy weather from the north- 

 ward. 



A fall with a northerly wind indicates storm; with rain and hail in sum- 

 mer, and snow in winter. 



A fall with increased moisture in the air and heat increasing, indicates 

 wind and rain from southward. 



