The CHART System Weather Stations are comprised of Environmental Sensor Stations (ESS) in the field, a communication system for data transfer, and central systems to collect field data from numerous ESS. These stations measure atmospheric, pavement and/or water level conditions. Central Road Weather Information System (RWIS) hardware and software are used to process observations from ESS to develop nowcasts or forecasts, and display or disseminate road weather information in a format that can be easily interpreted by a manager. RWIS data are used by road operators and maintainers to support decision making.
For additional information on the Road Weather Information System (RWIS) hardware and software see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page of the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) Road Weather Management Program.