Other hazardous meteorological conditions

Question 1

How are volcanic eruptions advised

Answer 1

NOTAMs/SIGMETs

Question 2

Duststorm development and hazards

Answer 2

• Dust and sand are raised by the wind (their height is dependent on turbulence, instability and persistence of the flow)
• Results in huge visibility reductions, electrical equipment issues if dust and sand enter the cockpit and if it enters the engines then power reductions or even complete engine failure

Question 3

Whiteout

Answer 3

Results in the loss of depth perception, can occur when there is a solid layer of overcast cloud and snow-covered terrain or in blizzard conditions

Question 4

Hazards of VA contaminated runway

Answer 4

Results in the degradation of braking performance especially if ash is wet

Question 5

Hazards of VA inflight

Answer 5

• Effects mainly jet engines, causing engines to flame out due to either the blocking of intakes, the abrasive action of ash particles and ash particles melting at high temps forming a layer of glass
• Block pitot heads affecting the operation of instruments
• Total loss of visibility through the windscreen due to the sandblasting effect

Question 6

Blizzards/blowing snow developments/hazards

Answer 6

Blizzards are severe winter storms that are a combination of blowing snow and wind. Causes very low visibility, whiteout conditions, deep drifts, runway contamination leading to poor braking performance and strong crosswinds