What is the minimum retention period for records of past observations according to standard procedures?

The minimum retention period for records of past observations is established as 90 days. This standard is in place to ensure that weather data is available for review and analysis, which can be critical for forecasting, research, and verifying trends over a significant period. Retaining records for 90 days allows meteorologists and researchers to access a sufficient amount of data to assess weather patterns and anomalies.

Understanding this retention period is important as it aligns with the practices in meteorological and climatological studies, ensuring that the records can support operational needs while also adhering to regulatory requirements. The decision for this specific duration reflects a balanced approach to data retention, considering the requirements for timely access to information versus the limitations of data management resources. Other timeframes, such as 30, 60, and 120 days, may not align with the operational and analytical needs of weather observation as effectively as the 90-day period does.