Temperature measures how hot or cold the air is. It reflects the average kinetic energy of the air molecules. In everyday use it is expressed in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit; scientific work often uses kelvin.

Air temperature is measured in the shade at a standard height above the ground to avoid direct solar heating of the sensor. Daily maximum and minimum values, along with the average, form the basic temperature record for a location. Temperature varies with height, time of day, season, and weather systems.

It is the single most widely reported weather variable because it directly affects human comfort, energy use, agriculture, and many natural processes. Extreme temperatures, both high and low, pose health and infrastructure risks. Long-term temperature records are central to climate monitoring.

• Measure of air warmth or coldness
• Recorded as max, min, and average
• Varies with height and weather
• Key climate and comfort variable