How to Read A Prog Chart

A prog chart (Surface Analysis Prog Charts) is a forecast chart created by the Weather Prediction Center that provides surface pressure systems, fronts, and precipitation for a multiday period. 

Each prog chart will forecast a "snapshot" of the weather at the given issued time. 

The first thing we check in every chart is, first, are we looking at the correct chart?Second, if the time is valid for our flight.

Next, using the legend, we can generally see the precipitation and visibility throughout the map.

For fronts and pressures, we can use this legend provided the FAA. 

Learn more about weather fronts here.

The grey numbers corresponds with the lines across the screen. The lines are called isobars, which are lines of equal atmospheric pressure. The closer the lines are, the stronger the wind. The picture above have lines that are close to each-other, therefore, you will see stronger winds here.