Temperaturort

Temperaturort is the location where air temperature measurements are taken for meteorology, climatology and environmental monitoring. It refers to the physical site where thermometers, data loggers or other temperature sensors are installed and operated, and it is a key element in the documentation of climate records.

Selection and exposure: A Temperaturort should be representative of the air mass or environment under study and minimize non-climatic influences. Important factors include surroundings (open sky, minimal shading), distance from heat sources (buildings, pavement, machinery), vegetation, and altitude. Distinctions are often made between rural, suburban and urban stations, which reflect different local microclimates.

Instrumentation and standards: Temperature is measured with thermometers or electronic sensors housed in radiation shields to minimize direct solar heating. Site metadata typically covers instrument type, exposure height, maintenance, and calibration history. Data quality depends on proper shielding, regular calibration, and consistent observation practices.

Data use and challenges: Records from various Temperaturorte form time series used for weather forecasting, climate monitoring and research. Datasets undergo homogenization to correct non-climatic biases caused by station relocations, instrument changes, or procedure updates. Challenges include urban heat island effects, site degradation, and gaps in metadata or continuity.

Global networks: The World Meteorological Organization and national meteorological services coordinate networks of Temperaturorte to provide standardized, long-term data. Shared data enable multi-decadal climate analyses, reanalyses, and assessments of environmental trends.