Homework \#1 Q1 Moisture and Forecasting 3 Points Moisture is one of the primary ingredients needed for thunderstorms, and higher amounts of moisture tend to increase the likelihood of severe weather. Forecasters typically use dewpoint temperature rather than relative humidity to look at moisture trends throughout the day. Why do you think they prefer dewpoint temperature?

Dewpoint temperature gives a more direct measure of atmospheric moisture compared to relative humidity, as it indicates the temperature at which air becomes saturated. This simplicity helps forecasters easily gauge how much moisture is actually in the air—because let's face it, a dewpoint of 60°F feels a lot different from one at 80°F even if the relative humidity might suggest otherwise! When forecasters track dewpoint trends, they can make better predictions about the potential for severe weather events, like thunderstorms. A rising dewpoint often signals upcoming storms since the higher moisture levels create a more unstable atmosphere, making it essential for accurate and timely weather predictions. So, the next time you check the weather, remember, it’s not just about the temperature—it’s all about that dewpoint!