Mapping the weather with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Imagine you’re watching a weather forecast on TV. The meteorologist shows you a colorful map with the rainfall forecast. Have you ever wondered how those maps are created? That’s where Geographic Information Systems come in. Learning the basics of GIS, and how it’s used in weather, can unlock valuable insights for individuals and businesses across various industries like agriculture, retail, energy and insurance.

Weather is inherently geographic. A thunderstorm over Atlanta doesn’t directly affect Chicago. A drought in California has different consequences than drought in the Midwest. GIS gives context to weather by showing where and how it matters.

What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System. At its core, it’s a technology paradigm that allows people to store, analyse and display spatial (location-based) data. Thinking spatially helps scientists to uncover hidden patterns and insights that are otherwise hidden in traditional datasets. GIS is a part of the broader field of geography, the study of the interaction between places, spaces and environments.

You might not realise it, but you probably use GIS every day:

• Google/Apple Maps? GPS Navigation? Weather Apps? — All GIS!

Weather is a natural fit for GIS since weather information varies through time and space. GIS can help unlock information that may not be obvious from weather data alone. For example, GIS processing and visualisation can help meteorologists:

• Map where storms are most likely to form
• Track hurricanes and severe weather
• Predict heat waves and cold waves
• Identify areas at risk of flooding

When you check the weather forecast before heading out, you’re relying on something much bigger than just a weather app. Behind every prediction is a powerful, often invisible force: GIS — Geographic Information Systems.

How Does GIS Work?

GIS combines many types of location‐based data to provide valuable insights. GIS helps us understand places better by layering different types of information on a map. In general, GIS workflows consist of the following:

• Collecting Data – GIS‐centric meteorological data is sourced from weather stations, satellites, forecast models, radar systems and more
• Storing Information – This data is often stored in spatial databases, which can be organised by location or special GIS file types that allow for
• Analysing the Data – Meteorologists use GIS to compare weather conditions across different areas though space and time
• Visualising Maps and Insights – Using GIS software, scientists make detailed weather maps to show patterns and predict future conditions

Imagine if you could take layers of information — like snow forecasts, wind speed and temperature — and stack them on top of each other to get a complete picture of an impending blizzard. That’s exactly what GIS is used for.

GIS enables the integration of different weather‐related data layers. By analysing this spatial data, meteorologists can identify areas at higher risk of extreme weather events, allowing for targeted early warnings and response plans.

Why is GIS Important for Meteorology?

Weather changes constantly, and GIS helps scientists see patterns and predict what might happen next. Combining weather data with other location‐based information unlocks hidden knowledge and insights for decision‐makers. Here are some real‐life examples of how GIS is used in weather forecasting:

• Tracking Hurricanes – GIS helps meteorologists track storms and warn people before they hit land
• Predicting Floods – GIS helps identify areas that might flood after heavy rain by mapping rainfall and elevation
• Monitoring Wildfires – GIS tracks wildfires and predicts how they might spread
• Snowfall Analysis – GIS helps cities plan for snow removal by mapping snowfall amounts

GIS can combine meteorological data (like temperature, wind speed and precipitation) with spatial information (such as city boundaries, agricultural zones or power grids). This combination enhances the decision‐making process, from improving the accuracy of weather forecasts to helping businesses manage risk.

GIS allows weather data to be visualised in real‐time, highlighting areas of concern such as upcoming storms, floods or temperature changes. For example, logistics companies can reroute deliveries based on real‐time weather data to avoid hazardous conditions.

The Future of Weather Forecasting and GIS

As GIS technology continues to evolve, its integration with weather and climate information will only become more sophisticated. The future holds exciting opportunities for businesses to harness the power of GIS and weather data in even more innovative ways. For example, AI and machine learning are increasingly being used to refine weather models, providing more accurate predictions and uncovering patterns that were once hidden in large datasets.

GIS is more than just a tool for mapping, it’s a powerful technology for understanding our world. In weather forecasting, GIS continues to play a vital role by combining complex spatial data into actionable insights. It’s not just about where things are, but about revealing patterns, trends and connections in complex spatial data. It’s how we understand the world around us, especially when dynamic forces like weather and climate shape it. So the next time you open your weather app, remember: there’s a whole world of data and spatial science powering that forecast. And if your business depends on the weather, GIS might just be your most valuable tool.

About the author

Ashley Ballard, MSc, CCM, co‐founder and CEO of Adiabat, is an American Meteorological Society Certified Consulting Meteorologist (#785) with over a decade of experience supporting commercial, government and non‐profit sectors with global GIS‐powered weather intelligence. 

Ashley volunteers her time as a member of the National Weather Association’s Membership and Marketing Committee, the private sector chair of the Virginia Tech Alumni Board for the Blue Ridge Chapter of the American Meteorological Society, and an ambassador of the Roanoke Valley GIS Association.

Adiabat is a geospatial weather and climate consulting firm specialising in tailored weather and climate solutions to drive confident decision‐making regarding risk mitigation, engineering, conservation, humanitarian concerns and beyond.