METARS

Question 1

METAR. SPECI. TAF

Answer 1

METAR - codified observation message indicating observed weather conditions at a certain time

SPECI - like a METAR but a special observation message highlighting any significant change since the last METAR or SPECI established punctually instead of regularly.

TAF - terminal forecast. Issued every few hours and updated if necessary sooner.

Question 2

METAR KRNO 210056Z 05012KT 10SM ~SN BRKN050 02/M08 A3016 RMK A02 SLP228 T00221083

Answer 2

(METAR, SPECI, TAF)
ICAO identifier
Issuance time DDHHMMz zulu time UTC
Wind
-first three digits
- true wind direction 210°
-average if variable (VRB)
- if varies by 60° or more 180V250
- G (gust) as needed - 2 or 3 digit maximum speed
- Calm shown as 00000KT
-EX. 18012G22KT. 150V240
Hortizonal Visibility
- statute miles, 4digit in meters
- lowest value and direction as required
- runway visual range. Designator, length and tendency
- Ex R18R/1200FTV/U
Present Weather
-Intensity (-,+,light, moderate, heavy)
Descriptor
- BC patches. BL blowing DR low driving
- DZ drizzle, GR 5mm hail, GS small hail
Precipitation, Obscuration, Other
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