Weather is something that can change our lives on a day-by-day basis. This is especially true if you are an airline pilot and you have to worry about getting your passengers and yourself to a destination safely. You must monitor the weather in order to make any flight plan adjustments necessary. There are plenty of tools online that allow you to the monitor the weather. Some of the tools are also free and all are easy to use.

The National Weather Service Website

If you need a free and accurate look at the weather, check the National Weather Service's website. They offer real-time radar and multiple views that allow a great look at any upcoming weather. Follow aviation forecasts that will help you avoid any bad or suspicious weather. Dangerous weather warnings are available so you can be appraised of any chance for severe weather during your trip. Multiple-day forecasts help you plan your return trip too! The website is one of the best tools available to help you prepare for a flight.

Other Online Tools for Tracking Weather

Another great online tool for tracking severe weather is the live radar provided by The Weather Channel. They offer a national live radar that reveals everything from rain to snow. It's powered by Microsoft Earth and is surprisingly accurate. They also provide you with data that the NWS makes available to them. Along the same lines, try using Google Earth to check out a live radar overlay. Both tools are great for keeping an eye on any developing weather systems and making sure that nothing becomes life-threatening.

If you use Google Chrome, download their live radar application. Other applications will notify you of any sudden changes in weather and helps you avoid storms. Most are free and easy to use and download like Forecastfox and Google Weather. Forecastfox allows you to see real-time data based upon your location.

Website for Pilots
If you are looking for a pilot-based weather website, visit DUATS. DUATS provides free FAA weather, flight planning, and flight plan filing. The website features easy-to-read radars and graphics to help you plan your flight. It is free to all U.S. registered pilots.

Yes, There's an App for Pilots Too!
iPhone users have access to several apps for pilots. World Aviation Weather displays current and forecasted weather at multiple locations worldwide. ForeFlight Mobile 2.3 provides information about thousands of airports worldwide and gives real-time locational data (through your iPhone GPS) like current weather and airports in the vicinity. File flight plans with air traffic control using your phone and this handy app.