I like to see the synoptic chart. From that, and experience of my local area, I have a fair idea of what is on the way.
Talking of the shipping forecast, I was a Radio Officer in the merchant navy, many a long year ago. I copied many a forecast. I was on a coaster for a spell, shunting back and forward from Liverpool to Belfast. I would copy the evening shipping forecast, then take it up to the bridge. Now I had come from a brightly lit radio cabin, and had to go onto a bridge lit only with night vision lamps. To my eyes it was pitch black! I would open the door and say I had the forecast and was always told, "Bring it here, Sparks". I had to stumble about in the dark, falling over the engine room telegraph, and making a proper fool of myself. I'm sure I was their entertainment for the evening!!