Please Note: Version 2 of Storm Systems, renamed Cyclones, has features beyond what you see described below.  As release time nears we will update this page to reflect the new version.  Visit our downloads page for a demo version of Cyclones.

Storms Systems ties together the concepts of cyclones and fronts to provide a clear understanding of the development of storm systems and the weather they cause. It's intended for any teacher who is looking for a way to show how important observable weather elements like wind, pressure and temperature change as cyclones pass by. More than just a pictorial weather cycle display, it's dynamic--and interactive:

• Adjust the factors that control the cyclone's intensity and path to make the cyclone pass to your north, south, or overhead
• Use two "weather stations" to view the changing weather at separate locations on the map
• Watch how temperature, pressure, winds, clouds and precipitation change as the cyclone moves and intensifies
• Have your students make forecasts based on what they've learned, and have the forecasts automatically scored

Storm Systems augments your use of daily weather maps and observations by presenting classic cyclones and the weather that is associated with them. Your students will learn from Storm System's clear, easy to use displays--making it easier for them to understand the real, more complex (and sometimes confusing) weather that they observe.

Sample Screens

	The Main Screen shows a cyclone as it moves eastward from the area of its formation. As the cyclone develops, it intensifies, winds grow stronger, and pressure changes are more pronounced. You can examine different aspects of the weather at any time and use two weather stations to observe the weather at specific locations.
	This shows what the winds are like near the cyclone, with stronger winds indicated by longer arrows.
	Here is what the air temperature is around the cyclone. Since this case represents a typical late-winter storm, there's quite a contrast in temperature between the warm and cold air masses.
	The Change Jet Screen provides you with the ability to change how strong the cyclone will become and what its path will be.
	The Forecast Screen lets you choose a location and forecast the weather it will have over a three-day period. You can use the Change Jet Screen to configure the cyclone to challenge your students with a variety of cases. The program will automatically score the forecast, and you can print the results.

 

System Requirements