What is Mesonet?

A mesonet (short for “mesoscale network”) is a system of weather monitoring stations spread over a region to provide high-resolution weather data. These stations collect information such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure at frequent intervals.

Mesonets are crucial for detecting and tracking severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and heavy rainfall. They provide meteorologists and emergency responders with real-time data, enabling quicker and more accurate warnings for communities at risk.

In tornado-prone areas, such as Oklahoma and Texas, mesonets play a vital role in storm prediction. By offering localized weather insights, they enhance public safety by giving earlier alerts, allowing people more time to seek shelter in storm shelters or safe rooms.

Many states operate their own mesonet systems, with some of the most advanced being the Oklahoma Mesonet and the Texas Tech University West Texas Mesonet. These networks contribute to improved weather modeling and emergency preparedness for severe storms.