Air Force Pamphlet 11-238

17 March 2011
Flying Operations

Aircrew Quick Reference

to the
METAR and TAF Codes

ACCESSIBILITY: Pu ublications and forms are av

vailable on the
e-Publishing website at www.e-Publishing.af.mil for downloading or
ordering.

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this

publication.
OPR: AFFSA/A3OF Certified by: HQ USAF/A3O-B
(Mr. Steven Pennington)
Supersedes AFPAM 11-238, 1 Nov 05 Pages: 36
 Introduction

The Aircrew Quick Reference Guide to the METAR and TAF Codes helps
aircrews quickly and clearly translate METAR and TAF codes into plain
language. See Attachment 1 for a list of source documents.

METAR reports are observed weather conditions while the TAF indicates
forecast conditions. Both are lines of text made up of coded data groups
separated by spaces. Some groups are not discussed because they are only
intended for use by the weather community. Differences between military
and civilian renderings of the code are discussed.

Aircrews should always check METAR and TAF reports thoroughly for all
hazards to flight safety and other elements that may affect aircraft
performance or mission accomplishment. When users have weather-related
questions, they should contact a certified US military forecaster or
MAJCOM-approved weather source for clarification. Weather briefing
requirements for USAF Aircrews are spelled out in AFI 11-202, Volume
3, General Flight Rules.

Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the

Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) using the AF Form 847,
Recommendation for Change of Publication; route AF Form 847s from the
field through the appropriate functional’s chain of command. This
publication may not be supplemented.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES
This document includes clarifications of METAR sector visibility and
vertical visibility and removes references to runway surface conditions
(now reported via NOTAMs). It also incorporates several changes to the
TAF format, specifically: repositioning the AMD and COR modifiers for
emphasis, adding a ―prepared/disseminated‖ time group to military TAFs
(already included in civilian TAFs), reformatting of the TAF valid time
groups, noting that some civilian TAFs are valid for up to 30 hours, and
adding a ―T‖ before both maximum and minimum temperature groups in
military TAFs.

2
 Table of Contents
Section I, METAR decoding: Page
Report Type 4
Location and Date/Time 5
Auto/Cor 6
Wind 7
Wind Variability 8
Visibility 9
Runway Visual Range 10
Type of Weather 11
Clouds 13
Temperature/Dewpoint 14
Altimeter Setting 15
Remarks, US 16
Remarks, Overseas 17
Section II, TAF decoding: Page
Report Type 19
Location 20
Date/Time 21
Time and Type of Change Expected 22
Wind 23
Visibility 24
Type of Weather 25
Clouds 26
Wind Shear 27
Icing 28
Turbulence 29
Minimum Altimeter Setting 30
Temperatures 31
Figures Page
1. Weather/Obscuration Table - METAR/TAF 12
2. Remarks Decode Table - METAR 18
3. Icing Intensity Decode Table - TAF 28
4. Turbulence Intensity Decode Table - TAF 29
Attachments Page
1. Glossary of References and Supporting Information 32
2. Temperature Conversion, Fahrenheit to Celsius 33
3. Reportable Visibility Conversion, Statute Miles to Meters 34
4. Runway Visibility Conversion 35
5. Pressure Conversion, Millibars to Inches 36

3
 METAR Report Type

What kind of report is this?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

This report is a METAR (roughly translated from French as

Aviation Routine Weather Report)—a scheduled observation
normally taken between 50-59 minutes past the hour (also
referred to as a routine hourly observation). A METAR can be
distinguished from a TAF by its single date/time group.

SPECI KBLV 011715Z 25015G30KT 210V290 3SM

BR BKN015 01/M01 A2984 RMK SLP034

SPECI (Aviation Selected Special Weather Report) refers to

an unscheduled report taken when certain criteria have been
met (such as a change from VFR to IFR) and may be taken
anytime.

4
 METAR Location and Date/Time

How do I determine the location and the date and time of

issuance?

PAAQ 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM BKN005 03/M01 A2984 RMK A02 SLP034

KCLK 291012Z AUTO 08009KT 2SM -RA SCT005

OVC009 M01/M01 A2999 RMK AO2

The 4-character ICAO identifier is the location; PAAQ

(Palmer Municipal) and KCLK (Clinton Regional) are the
locations/stations in these examples.

The 7-character group following the ICAO identifier is the

date and time of issuance. The first two digits are the date; the
last four digits are the coordinated universal time (UTC),
sometimes called ―zulu time.‖

In the first example, 01 is the 1st day of the month, and

1657Z is 1657 UTC. The second example takes place on the
29th day of the month at 1012 UTC.

When ICAO identifiers are not available or cannot be used, a

4-character identifier starting with KQ will be used. This
practice is normally found in a contingency environment,
where the location/identifier combination is often classified.
Consult the local weather flight for more details.

5
 METAR AUTO/COR

What does AUTO and/or COR mean, if included?

Let’s look at the meanings of AUTO and COR separately.

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK A02A
SLP034

AUTO refers to an automated observation with measurements taken

by equipment such as the domestic Automated Weather Observing
System (AWOS) or Automated Surface Observation System
(ASOS), or the Air Force’s Automated Meteorological Station
(AMS), also known as AN/FMQ-19. AO1 denotes an observation
taken by equipment lacking a precipitation type discriminator (rain
vs. snow). AO2 denotes an observation taken by standard equipment
with a full complement of sensors. A02A denotes an automated
observation augmented by a human observer. Absence of these
indicators denotes a manual report by a human observer.

KBLV 011657Z AUTO COR 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG FU BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02A SLP034 COR 1725

COR indicates a corrected observation. Disregard the previous

transmission. COR 1725 means that the correction was transmitted
at 1725Z.

6
 METAR Wind

How do I determine the wind speed and direction?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

The data group followed by KT (knots) is the wind.

The first three digits are the true direction to the nearest 10
degrees from which the wind is blowing. The next two digits
are the sustained speed. If gusts are present, the next two or
three digits following the ―G” are the ―gust,‖ the maximum
wind speed in the last ten minutes.

In this example, the 25015G30KT group is the wind

direction and speed. Here, the wind is blowing from 250
degrees (true) at a sustained speed of 15 knots, gusting up to
30 knots.

Calm wind is encoded as 000000KT.

7
 METAR Wind Variability

How do I determine if the wind is varying between

directions?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

A wind variability group will be reported if the wind is

variable by 60 degrees or more and the speed is greater than 6
knots. This remark will contain the extremes of the wind
directions, separated by ―V.‖

In the example above, 210V290 reads, ―wind direction

varying between 210 and 290.‖

KBLV 011657Z AUTO VRB03KT 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK
A02 SLP034

VRB is used (without direction extremes) when the wind speed

is less than or equal to 6 knots. In the example above,
VRB03KT reads, ―wind direction is variable at 3 knots.‖

8
 METAR Visibility

How do I determine the prevailing visibility?

KBLV 011657Z 25015G30KT 210V290 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK SLP034

Visibility is measured in statute miles. In this example, 3/8SM

(3/8 of a statute mile) is the prevailing visibility. Prevailing
visibility is the greatest horizontal visibility observed
throughout at least half the horizon circle, not necessarily
continuous. Surface visibility is measured at a point six feet
above ground level.

Sector visibility may be reported in the remarks section if it

differs from the prevailing visibility and is less than 3 miles,
or otherwise considered operationally significant. For sector
visibility format, see VIS remarks in Figure 2 on page 18.

EDDF 071320Z 22008KT 9999 SCT036 SCT090

BKN280 19/10 Q1011 NOSIG

Most overseas locations report visibility in meters and omit

the SM identifier. The largest reportable metric value is
9999. This value represents a visibility greater than 9000
meters (7 SM or more). The contraction CAVOK (ceiling and
visibility OK) may be used when there is no significant
weather, the visibility is 10 km or greater, and the ceilings are
greater than 5,000 ft. To convert visibility values from meters
to statute miles see Attachment 3 or the Flight Information
Handbook conversion tables.

9
 METAR Runway Visual Range, “R”

What if there is a group that begins with the letter “R?”

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK A02
SLP034

Runway Visual Range (RVR) follows the visibility and begins with
the letter ―R.‖ The runway heading will follow the ―R,‖ and in this
example, ―32L‖ represents runway 32-Left (C-Center, R-Right).
The last four digits report the visibility in feet.

In this example, R32L/1000FT reads, ―runway visual range for

runway 32 Left is 1,000 ft.‖

Most overseas locations report visibility in meters and omit the FT

identifier from the RVR group. The same RVR at an overseas
location would appear as R32L/0300 and read, ―runway visual
range for 32 Left is 300 meters.‖

How would I decode the formats M0600FT or P6000FT or

R06L2000V4000FT (not in example above)?

M0600FT Reads, ―RVR is less than 600 feet.‖ (M =

less than)
P6000FT Reads, ―RVR is greater than 6,000 feet.‖
(P = greater than)
R06L2000V4000FT Reads, ―RVR for 6 Left is variable
between 2,000 and 4,000 feet.‖
―V‖ indicates that the RVR is variable
between two thresholds.
For RVR conversion charts, see Attachment 4 or the front section of
any Instrument Approach Procedures (IAP) booklet.
10
 METAR Type of Weather

How do I determine if there is any weather?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

If a weather element (precipitation or obstruction to visibility)

is observed, it will be found in the data group following the
visibility. The absence of a weather element group indicates
that no precipitation or obstruction to visibility is occurring at
the time of the observation. In this example, ―FG‖ represents
―Fog.‖

To methodically decode a weather group, look for six key

elements (depending on the phenomena, one or more may be
omitted). In order, these elements are: Intensity (symbol
preceding the code), Proximity, Descriptor, Precipitation
Description, Obscuration (other than precipitation), and
Other.

For a complete table of weather group elements and examples,

see Figure 1 on page 12, or reference Section C ―METAR and
TAF Code‖ of the Flight Information Handbook.

11
 METAR Weather/Obscuration Table
Figure 1. Weather/Obscuration Table
Phenomenon Qualifiers
Element 1: Intensity Element 2: Proximity Element 3: Description
- Light none On station BC Patches
In the vicinity
VC
none Moderate (5-10 miles) BL Blowing
DSNT > 10 miles
+ Heavy DR Low Drifting
Note: + can also mean FZ Freezing
a well-developed dust storm, MI Shallow
sandstorm, whirl, dust devil, PR Partial (covering
tornado, or waterspout part of the sky)
SH Shower(s)
TS Thunderstorm

Types of Weather Phenomenon

Element 4: Precipitation Element 5: Obscuration Element 6: Other
DZ Drizzle BR Mist, vis. ≥ 5/8SM DS Dust Storm
GR Hail, diam. ≥ 5mm (.25") (or ≥ 1000m) FC Funnel cloud(s)
GS Small Hail / Snow Pellets, DU Widespread Dust e.g., tornado
diam. < 5mm (.25") FG Fog, vis. < 5/8SM or waterspout
IC Ice Crystals (or ≥ 1000m) PO Well-developed
PL Ice Pellets FU Smoke dust/sand whirls
RA Rain HZ Haze SQ Squalls
SG Snow Grains PY Spray SS Sandstorm
SN Snow SA Sand
UP Unknown Precipitation VA Volcanic Ash
(Automated only)
Examples:
+SHRASNPL heavy rain showers, snow, ice pellets +DRSN heavy snow, drifting
TSRAGS thunderstorm, moderate rain, small hail VCSH showers in vicinity
BR HZ mist (vis. >= 5/8SM), haze FZDZ freezing drizzle
BCFG patchy fog (vis. < 5/8SM) BLPY blowing spray
PRFG partial fog (sector vis. < 5/8SM) +DS heavy dust storm

A similar table can be found in Section C of the Flight Information Handbook.

12
 METAR Clouds

How do I determine the layers of clouds?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK A02
SLP034

Each observed cloud layer is encoded in a cloud group with sky

coverage, altitude of the cloud base above ground level (AGL), and
sometimes cloud type. The first three letters of each cloud group
denote sky coverage as in the table below. In this example, BKN
indicates broken cloud coverage. To interpret the reported cloud
base, append two zeros to the value given. In this example, 005
represents the value 500 feet AGL. Finally, in augmented or manual
observations, codes for convective cloud types may be appended.
CB stands for cumulonimbus; TCU stands for towering cumulus.

If surface-based obscurations (e.g., clouds, smoke, haze) are

reported, and the lowest broken or overcast cloud base cannot be
determined, then vertical visibility in hundreds of feet determines
the ceiling. For example, VV002 represents a vertical visibility of
200 feet.

Sky coverage in eighths:

SKC or CLR Sky clear
FEW Few (Trace – 2/8)
SCT Scattered (3/8 – 4/8)
BKN * Broken (5/8 – 7/8)
OVC * Overcast (8/8)
* The lowest layer reported as broken or overcast constitutes a ―ceiling‖

A similar table can be found in Section C, ―METAR and TAF

Code‖, of the Flight Information Handbook.

13
 METAR Temperature/Dewpoint

How do I determine the current temperature and

dewpoint?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

The group following the sky condition is the temperature and

dewpoint information in degrees Celsius. To convert
temperatures from Celsius to Fahrenheit see Attachment 2 or
the Flight Information Handbook conversion tables.

In this example, 01 is the temperature in degrees Celsius

(1ºC), and M01 is the dewpoint in degrees Celsius (-1ºC). An
―M‖ in the temperature or dewpoint field means ―minus‖
(below zero).

14
 METAR Altimeter Setting

How do I determine the current altimeter setting?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290

3/8SM R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984
RMK A02 SLP034

The 5-character group beginning with A, following the

temperature/dewpoint group is the altimeter setting in inches
and hundredths of an inch of mercury (inches Hg), used in the
United States and at US airfields overseas. In this example,
A2984 represents a current altimeter setting of 29.84 inches
Hg.

EDDF 071320Z 22008KT 9999 SCT036 SCT090

BKN280 19/10 Q1011 NOSIG

The 5-character group beginning with Q, following the

temperature/dewpoint group is the altimeter setting in
hectopascals (hPa), used at most overseas locations. A
hectopascal is equivalent to a millibar (mb). In this example,
Q1011 represents a current altimeter setting of 1011 hPa or
1011 mb.

To convert altimeter settings from mb (or hPa) to inches Hg,

see Attachment 5 or the Flight Information Handbook
conversion tables.

15
 METAR Remarks, US

What is RMK?

KBLV 011657Z AUTO 25015G30KT 210V290 3/8SM

R32L/1000FT FG BKN005 01/M01 A2984 RMK A02
SLP034

In METAR reports from the United States and from overseas US

military airfields, RMK indicates the start of the Remarks section.
Remarks contain any pertinent information beyond the standard
fields provided and can be either encoded or spelled out in plain
language. For a partial listing of possible METAR remarks, see
Figure 2 on page 18. Additional abbreviations are constructed in
accordance with FAA Order 7340.1, Contractions.

In this example, the remark, SLP034, is the sea level pressure in

millibars (or hectopascals) to the nearest tenth. To decode, place a
―10‖ or ―9‖ before the first digit (use a 9 if the 3-digit value is 500
or more), and place a decimal point before the last digit. The sea
level pressure remark in the above example would read ―current sea
level pressure of 1003.4 millibars.‖

Caution: Do not confuse the METAR remarks ―5####‖ group or

―6####‖ group with the TAF ―5######‖ (turbulence) group or the
TAF ―6######‖ (icing) group. Unlike TAF code usage, METAR
―5‖ and ―6‖ group codes indicate pressure tendency and cumulative
precipitation amounts--if you need these values, contact your
weather provider for decoding instructions. See pages 28 and 29 for
more info on decoding TAF icing and turbulence forecasts.

16
 METAR Remarks, Overseas

What is supplemental information?

Overseas (except at US military installations), METAR remarks are called

―supplemental information.‖ Supplemental information follows the
altimeter setting and uses remark codes like US remarks, as in Figure 2 on
page 18, but is not preceded by RMK.

Supplemental information can also include:

- Recent weather elements, coded with a leading RE
- Sea surface temperature in ºC and sea state 0-9, coded W##/S#
- Runway state, coded as an 8-digit numerical group
- A 2-hour forecast trend as described below

EDDF 071320Z 22008KT 9999 SCT036 SCT090 BKN280

19/10 Q1011 NOSIG

Overseas METAR forecast trend groups either start with BECMG or

TEMPO, consistent with TAF coding conventions, or they consist entirely
of NOSIG, which indicates that no significant changes in reportable
weather elements are expected during the 2 hours following the reported
observation.

METARs issued by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) observers

have, as the last data group, a color code for ceiling and visibility data:

NATO Airfield Weather Color Code. source: AFMAN 15-111 USAFESUP1

Color Code Color * Ceiling at or above: Visibility at or above:
BLU blue 2500 feet 8000 meters
WHT white 1500 feet 5000 meters
GRN green 700 feet 3700 meters
YLO yellow 300 feet 1600 meters
AMB amber 200 feet 0800 meters
RED red < 200 feet < 0800 meters
BLACK Airfield not useable for reasons other than
black
ceiling or visibility
* Belgium, France, Netherlands, and United Kingdom use scattered clouds instead of ceiling

17
 METAR Remarks Decode Table
Figure 2. Remarks Decode Table
A01 – Reported by automated PK WND 34050/38 – PeaK WiND 340 at 50 knots
observation equipment that occurred at 38 minutes past the hour
CANNOT distinguish between rain
PRESRR / PRESFR – PRESsure Rising Rapidly /
and snow
PRESsure Falling Rapidly
A02 – Reported by automated
RAB20SNB20E55 – RAin and SNow Began at 20
observation equipment that CAN
minutes past the hour, Ended at 55 min past
distinguish between rain and snow
RVRNO – RVR-equipped, but NO report
ACC W – AltoCumulus Castellanus
clouds West SFC VIS 2 1/2 – SurFaCe VISibility is 2 ½ statute
miles; remarked when (lower) tower visibility is
ACSL SW-S – AltoCumulus Standing
reported in METAR body
Lenticular clouds SouthWest through
South SLP015 – Sea Level Pressure is 1001.5 millibars
ALSTG/SLP ESTMD– Estimated TCU OHD – Towering CUmulus clouds OverHeaD
Pressure. Primary airfield sensors
TCU W – Towering CUmulus clouds to the West
are suspect or inoperative; backup
equipment is being used. TSB05E30 – ThunderStorm Began at 05 minutes
past the hour and Ended at 30 min past
CB W MOV E – CumulonimBus clouds
TWR VIS 1 – ToWeR VISibility is 1 statute mile;
West MOVing East
remarked when (lower) surface visibility is
reported in METAR body
CBMAM DSNT S – CumulonimBus
MAMmatus clouds to the DiStaNT VIRGA – VIRGA at the station; precipitation
South observed but not reaching the ground
CCSL OVR MT E – CirroCumulus VIRGA DSNT NE – VIRGA to the DiStaNT
Standing Lenticular clouds OVeR NorthEast
MounTain(s) to the East
VIRGA SW – VIRGA to the SouthWest
CONS LTGCA – CONtinuouS (more
VIS 1V2 – VISibility is Variable between 1 and 2
than 6 flashes per minute)
miles
LighTninG, Cloud to Air
VIS 2 RWY 11 – VISibility is 2 statute miles at
FROPA – … due to FROntal Passage
RunWaY 11
FRQ – FReQuent (1-6 flashes per
VIS N 2 – VISibility in the Northern sector is 2
minute for lightning)
statute miles
LTGCA – LighTninG, Cloud to Air
WND DATA ESTMD – Estimated Wind. Primary
LTGCC – LighTninG, Cloud to Cloud airfield sensors are suspect or inoperative;
backup equipment is being used.
LTGCG – LighTninG, Cloud to Ground
LTGIC – LighTninG, In-Cloud WSHFT45 – Wind SHiFT at 45 minutes past the
hour
OCNL – OCcassioNaL (less than 1
flash per minute for lightning)
PK WND 28045/1955 – PeaK WiND
280 at 45 knots occurred at 1955Z

18
 TAF Report Type
What type of report is this?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

This report is a TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast)—a weather forecast

at an airport or military base for a specific period. A TAF is distinguished
from a METAR by its multiple date/time groups.
AMD KBLV 051820Z 0518/0612 21015KT 0800 TSRA BKN008CB
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 29008KT 1600 -RA OVC030 QNH2958INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/18Z
TM01/11Z AMD 1820

AMD (Amended Aerodrome Forecast) is issued because the previous

version is no longer representative of the current or expected weather. The
amended TAF supersedes the previous TAF. In the above example, AMD
1820 indicates that the forecast was amended at 1820Z. Always refer to
the date/time group at the end of the TAF to determine the most current
forecast.

AMD KBLV 051925Z 0518/0612 21015KT 0800 TSRA BKN008CB

QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 29008KT 1600 -RA OVC030 QNH2958INS
BECMG 0520/0521 18015KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/18Z
TM01/11Z COR 1925

AMD is also used with COR (Corrected Aerodrome Forecast) to indicate

that a TAF has been corrected. When a corrected TAF is issued, disregard
previous TAFs. In the above example, COR 1925 indicates that the
amended forecast was corrected at 1925Z. Always refer to the date/time
group at the end of the TAF for the most current forecast.

19
 TAF Location

How do I determine the location?

PAAQ 041419Z 0414/0512 VRB03KT 6SM BR OVC003

TEMPO 0414/0418 5SM BR
FM042000 34005KT P6SM FEW008 SCT070

KCLK 081126Z 0812/0912 07009KT 3SM -SN BR OVC003

FM082100 05008KT 1SM -SN BR OVC001

The 4-character ICAO identifier is the location. PAAQ (Palmer

Municipal) and KCLK (Clinton Regional) are the locations/stations
in these examples.

When ICAO identifiers are not available or cannot be used, a 4-

character identifier starting with KQ will be used. This is usually
in a contingency environment, and the location/identifier
combination is often classified. Consult the local weather flight for
more details.

20
 TAF Date/Time

How do I determine the date and valid times of the forecast?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030
WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

KPVU 081123Z 0812/0906 32009KT P6SM OVC050

TEMPO 0812/0816 SCT050
FM081600 VRB04KT P6SM SCT200

KSLC 081123Z 0812/0918 35007KT P6SM BKN120

FM090400 15005KT P6SM SCT200
FM090900 14004KT P6SM SCT120 BKN200

The next two groups that follow the ICAO identifier show the
preparation/dissemination time of the TAF and the valid time of the
forecast. In the KBLV (Scott AFB) example, 051151Z shows that
the TAF was prepared/disseminated on the 5th day of the month at
1151Z. The valid time of the forecast follows as 0512/0612 and
indicates that the forecast valid time is from 1200Z on the 5th day of
the month to 1200Z on the 6th day.

Although most TAFs are forecasted for a 24-hour period, the valid
times may vary, up to a maximum of 30 hours. For example, the
TAF at KPVU (Provo Municipal) is only valid from 1200Z on the
8th day until 0600Z on the 9th day, while the TAF at KSLC (Salt
Lake City International) is valid from 1200Z on the 8th day until
1800Z on the 9th day.

21
 TAF Time and Type of Change Expected

How do I determine the time and type of changes that will occur?

KSTL 051130Z 0512/0612 14008KT 5SM BR BKN030

WS010/18025KT
TEMPO 0513/0516 1 1/2SM BR
FM051600 16010KT P6SM NSW SKC
BECMG 0522/0524 20013G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020
PROB40 0600/0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB
BECMG 0606/0608 21015KT P6SM NSW SCT040

Civilian and military forecasters alike encode the time and type of change
expected with TEMPO, FM, and BECMG groups.

TEMPO represents a temporary condition. In this example, TEMPO

0513/0516 1 1/2SM BR reads, ―Temporary condition between
1300Z and 1600Z on the 5th day of 1 1/2 statute mile visibility in mist.‖
Only the temporary changing conditions are included in TEMPO groups.

FM means ―from‖ and indicates a rapid weather change where all data
groups in the previous line are superseded. In this example, FM051600
reads, ―From 1600Z on the 5th day…‖.

BECMG means ―becoming‖ or a ―gradual change‖ in meteorological

conditions and becomes the predominant group by the end time listed.
In this example, BECMG 0522/0524 reads ―Becoming from 2200Z to
2400Z on the 5th day.‖

PROB40 (civilian use only) represents a 40% probability or chance of

conditions occurring along with associated weather conditions (wind,
visibility, sky conditions).

In this example, PROB40 0600/0606 2SM TSRA 0VCOO8CB reads,

―40% chance between 0000Z and 0600Z on the 6th day of visibility 2
statute miles in moderate thunderstorms, 800 overcast cumulonimbus
clouds.‖

22
 TAF Wind

How do I determine the wind speed and direction?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

The data group after the valid time and followed by KT (knots) is
the forecast wind speed.

The first three digits within a wind group are the true direction to
the nearest 10 degrees from which the wind will blow. The next two
digits are the sustained speed. If gusts are forecasted, the next two
or three digits following the ―G‖ are the ―gust,‖ the maximum wind
speed in a ten-minute window.

In this example, 14005KT, 16010KT, 21015G30KT, 29008KT,

31012G22KT, and 30008KT are the wind direction and speed
groups.

In the first wind group, the wind is forecasted to blow from 140
degrees (true) at a sustained speed of 05 knots. No gust is
forecasted.

In the third wind group, the wind is forecasted to blow from 210
degrees (true) at a sustained speed of 15 knots, gusting up to 30
knots.

23
 TAF Visibility
How do I determine the forecast visibility?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

In the military and at most overseas locations, visibility is forecasted in

meters. The 4-character group following the wind is the forecast visibility.
In the KBLV example, 8000, 3200, 1600, 3200, and 9999 are the forecast
visibilities in meters. 9999 is the greatest value forecasted. A value of 9999
indicates a forecast visibility of greater than 9000 meters (7 statute miles or
greater). To convert visibility values from meters to statute miles, see
Attachment 3 or the Flight Information Handbook conversion tables.

Overseas locations may use the contraction ―CAVOK‖ (ceiling and visibility
OK) when there is no significant weather, the visibility is 10 km or greater,
and the ceilings are greater than 5,000 ft.

KSTL 051130Z 0512/0612 14008KT 5SM BR BKN030

WS010/18025KT
TEMPO 0513/0516 1 1/2SM BR
FM051600 16010KT P6SM NSW SKC
BECMG 0522/0524 20013G20KT 4SM SHRA OVC020
PROB40 0600/0606 2SM TSRA OVC008CB
BECOMG 0606/0608 21015KT P6SM NSW SCT040

In the CONUS, civilian TAFS forecast visibility in statute miles up to

6 statute miles, beyond which P6SM is used to indicate forecast visibility
greater than 6 statute miles.

24
 TAF Type of Weather

How do I determine if there is any forecast weather?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

The weather data group (forecast precipitation or obstruction to

visibility) follows the visibility data group.

In this example, BR means ―mist,‖ -SHRA means ―light rain

showers,‖ TSRA means a ―thunderstorm with moderate rain,‖ and
-RA means ―light rain.‖ NSW (no significant weather) is used to
indicate that the weather or obscuration listed in the previous group
is no longer expected to occur. Absence of a weather or obscuration
group means that no weather or obscuration is expected during the
forecast period.

To methodically decode a weather group, look for six key elements

(depending on the phenomena, one or more may be omitted). In
order, these elements are: Intensity (symbol preceding the code),
Proximity, Descriptor, Precipitation Description, Obscuration
(other than precipitation) and Other.

For a complete table of weather group elements and examples, see

Figure 1 on page 12, or reference Section C, ―METAR and TAF
Code‖, of the Flight Information Handbook.

25
 TAF Clouds

How do I determine the layers of forecast clouds?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT 9999 SKC QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

Cloud height is forecasted in hundreds of feet. Add two zeros to the end of
the value given. In this example, FEW030, BKN008CB, OVC020, and
SKC represent the values 3,000 few, 800 broken cumulonimbus, 2,000
overcast, and sky clear. Overseas locations may use the contraction
CAVOK (ceiling and visibility OK) when there is no significant weather,
the visibility is 10 km or greater, and the ceilings are greater than 5,000 ft.

In place of cloud layers, vertical visibility in hundreds of feet will appear

in a TAF cloud group when the sky is forecast to be totally obscured. For
example, VV002 represents a vertical visibility of 200 feet. Vertical
visibility in a TAF represents the forecast ceiling.

When a surface-based partial obscuration is forecasted, it will be encoded

as FEW000, SCT000, or BKN000 in the cloud layer area. A remark will
appear after the altimeter that will describe the phenomena responsible.
For example, FG SCT000 would indicate the weather element causing the
obscuration is caused by fog and the layer amount is SCT. Surface-based
partial obscurations will not be considered a ceiling.
Sky coverage (eighths):
SKC or CLR Sky clear
FEW Few (Trace – 2/8)
SCT Scattered (3/8 – 4/8)
BKN * Broken (5/8 – 7/8)
OVC * Overcast (8/8)
* The lowest layer reported as broken or overcast constitutes a ―ceiling‖
A similar table can be found in Section C, ―METAR and TAF Code‖, of
the Flight Information Handbook.
26
 TAF Wind Shear

How do I determine if wind shear is in the forecast?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

A wind shear group is included if non-convective low-level winds

(up to 2,000 feet) will change in speed and/or direction and result in
a shearing action. WS indicates forecast wind shear and is followed
by a 3-digit height in hundreds of feet AGL, a slant character, ‖/,‖
and forecast wind at the height indicated. WS010/18040KT reads,
―forecast wind shear at 1,000 feet above the station; wind at 1,000
feet is from 180 degrees (true) at 40 knots.‖

The remark WSCONDS is used to indicate the potential for wind

shear when there is not enough information available to reliably
predict the height, direction and speed of the wind shear. WSCONDS
is normally used beyond the first 6 hours of the TAF.

For some locations, the wind shear group will follow the minimum
altimeter setting group (in the TAF remarks) instead of following
the cloud group.

27
 TAF Icing

How do I determine forecast icing conditions?

KBLV 051153Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030
WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS T08/0518Z TM01/0611Z

If forecasted, the icing group will be prefixed by the number 6, and follows
the cloud group. To decode, follow these instructions:
1. Find the icing designator ―6‖ following the cloud group (620304).
2. The next digit gives icing type and intensity (620304). See Figure 3.
3. The next three digits give the base of the icing layer in hundreds of feet
(620304).
4. The last digit provides the icing layer depth in thousands of feet
(620304), so add this value to the base height to determine the top limit
of the icing conditions.

In the above example, the icing forecast will read, ―light rime icing (in
cloud) from 3,000 to 7,000 feet.‖

Figure 3. Icing Intensity Decode Table

CODE DECODE
0 Trace Icing or None (see note)
1 Light Mixed Icing
2 Light Rime Icing In Cloud
3 Light Clear Icing In Precipitation
4 Moderate Mixed Icing
5 Moderate Rime Icing In Cloud
6 Moderate Clear Icing In Precipitation
7 Severe Mixed Icing
8 Severe Rime Icing In Cloud
9 Severe Clear Icing In Precipitation
Note: Air Force code ―0‖ means a trace of icing,
World Meteorological Organization code ―0‖ means no icing

28
 TAF Turbulence

How do I determine forecast turbulence conditions?

KBLV 051153Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 FEW030 QNH2960INS

BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 520004
QNH2952INS T08/0518Z TM01/0611Z

If forecasted, the turbulence code will be prefixed by the number 5, and

will follow the cloud or icing group. To decode, follow these instructions:
1. Look for the turbulence designator ―5‖ that follows the cloud or icing
group (520004).
2. The next digit will determine the intensity (520004). See Figure 4.
3. The next three digits will determine the base limit of the turbulence
layer in hundreds of feet AGL (520004).
4. The last digit will determine the turbulence layer depth in thousands of
feet (520004), so add this value to the base height to determine the top
limit of the turbulence conditions.

In the above example, the turbulence forecast will read, ―occasional

moderate turbulence in clear air from the surface to 4,000 feet.‖

Figure 4. Turbulence Intensity Decode Table

CODE DECODE
0 None
1 Light turbulence
2 Moderate turbulence in clear air, occasional
3 Moderate turbulence in clear air, frequent
4 Moderate turbulence in cloud, occasional
5 Moderate turbulence in cloud, frequent
6 Severe turbulence in clear air, occasional
7 Severe turbulence in clear air, frequent
8 Severe turbulence in cloud, occasional
9 Severe turbulence in cloud, frequent
X Extreme turbulence
Note: Occasional is defined as occurring less than 1/3 of the time

29
 TAF Minimum Altimeter Setting

How do I determine the forecast lowest altimeter setting?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

Forecast minimum altimeter settings are only found in military

forecasts. These are near the end of the line, beginning with QNH
(minimum) and ending with INS (inches). To convert altimeter
settings from inches Hg to hectopascals (millibars), use Attachment
4 or the Flight Information Handbook conversion tables.

In the example shown above, QNH2960INS, QNH2959INS,

QNH2958INS, QNH2952INS, and QNH2950INS are read as
minimum altimeter settings of 29.60, 29.59, 29.58, 29.52, and 29.50
inches of mercury, respectively.

30
 TAF Temperatures

How do I determine the forecast temperatures?

KBLV 051151Z 0512/0612 14005KT 8000 BR FEW030

WS010/18040KT QNH2960INS
BECMG 0513/0514 16010KT 3200 -SHRA OVC020 QNH2959INS
TEMPO 0514/0516 21015G30KT 1600 TSRA BKN008CB OVC020
BECMG 0516/0517 29008KT 3200 -RA OVC030 620304
QNH2958INS
BECMG 0518/0519 31012G22KT 9999 NSW SCT040 WSCONDS
520004 QNH2952INS
BECMG 0520/0521 30008KT CAVOK QNH2950INS T08/0518Z
TM01/0611Z

Forecast temperatures for the forecast period are routinely found

only in military TAFs. They are found on the last line, following the
minimum altimeter, beginning with the designator ―T,‖ maximum
temperature first. To convert temperature units from Celsius to
Fahrenheit, use Attachment 2 or the Flight Information Handbook
conversion tables.

In this example, T08/0518Z indicates a forecast maximum

temperature of 8°C on the 5th day at 1800Z, and TM01/0611Z
indicates a forecast minimum temperature of -1°C on the 6th day at
1100Z.

HERBERT J. CARLISLE, Lt Gen, USAF

DCS, Operations, Plans, and Requirements

31
 Attachment 1

GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES
AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION
References
AFMAN 15-111, Surface Weather Observations

AFMAN 15-124, Meteorological Codes

ICAO Document 8896AN/893/4, Manual of Aeronautical Meteorological Practice,

ISBN 92-9194-345-2

AFMAN 15-111 USAFESUP1, United States Air Forces in Europe Supplement to

Surface Weather Observations

FAA Order 7340.1, Contractions

Abbreviations and Acronyms

AGL—Above Ground Level

FAA—Federal Aviation Administration

ICAO—International Civil Aviation Organization

METAR—Aviation Routine Weather Report

NATO—North Atlantic Treaty Organization

RVR—Runway Visual Range

SPECI—Aviation Selected Special Weather Report

TAF—Terminal Aerodrome Forecast

UTC—Coordinated Universal Time, sometimes called ―zulu time‖

32
 Attachment 2

TEMPERATURE CONVERSION
Degrees Fahrenheit to Degrees Celsius
ºF ºF ºF ºF
From To ºC From To ºC From To ºC From To ºC
128.3 130.0 54 83.3 85.0 29 38.3 40.0 04 -4.8 -3.1 M20
126.5 128.2 53 81.5 83.2 28 36.3 38.2 03 -6.6 -4.9 M21
124.7 126.4 52 79.7 81.4 27 34.7 36.2 02 -8.4 -6.7 M22
122.9 124.6 51 77.9 79.6 26 32.9 34.6 01 -10.2 -8.5 M23
121.1 122.8 50 76.1 77.8 25 32.0 32.8 00 -12.0 -10.3 M24
119.3 121.0 49 74.3 76.0 24 31.2 31.9 M00 -13.8 -12.1 M25
117.5 119.2 48 72.5 74.2 23 29.4 31.1 M01 -15.6 -13.9 M26
115.7 117.4 47 70.7 72.4 22 27.6 29.3 M02 -17.4 -15.7 M27
113.9 115.6 46 68.9 70.6 21 25.8 27.5 M03 -19.2 -17.5 M28
112.1 113.8 45 67.1 68.8 20 24.0 25.7 M04 -21.0 -19.3 M29
110.3 112.0 44 65.3 67.0 19 22.2 23.9 M05 -22.8 -21.1 M30
108.5 110.2 43 63.5 65.2 18 20.4 22.1 M06 -24.6 -22.9 M31
106.7 108.4 42 61.7 63.4 17 18.6 20.3 M07 -26.4 -24.7 M32
104.9 106.6 41 59.9 61.6 16 16.8 18.5 M08 -28.2 -26.5 M33
103.1 104.8 40 58.1 59.8 15 15.0 16.7 M09 -30.0 -28.3 M34
101.3 103.0 39 56.3 58.0 14 13.2 14.9 M10 -31.8 -30.1 M35
99.5 101.2 38 54.5 56.2 13 11.4 13.1 M11 -33.6 -31.9 M36
97.7 99.4 37 52.7 54.4 12 9.6 11.3 M12 -35.4 -33.7 M37
95.9 97.6 36 50.9 52.6 11 7.8 9.5 M13 -37.2 -35.5 M38
94.1 95.8 35 49.1 50.8 10 6.0 7.7 M14 -39.0 -37.3 M39
92.3 94.0 34 47.3 49.0 09 4.2 5.9 M15 -40.8 -39.1 M40
90.5 92.2 33 45.5 47.2 08 2.4 4.1 M16 -42.6 -40.9 M41
88.7 90.4 32 43.7 45.4 07 0.6 2.3 M17 -44.4 -42.7 M42
86.9 88.6 31 41.9 43.6 06 -1.2 +0.5 M18 -46.2 -44.5 M43
85.1 86.8 30 40.1 41.8 05 -3.0 -1.3 M19 -48.0 -46.5 M44

33
 Attachment 3

REPORTABLE VISIBILITY CONVERSION

Statute Miles (SM) to Meters (m)

STATUTE STATUTE STATUTE

MILES METERS MILES METERS MILES METERS
0 0000 1-1/8 1800 2-3/4 4400
- 0050 - 1900 - 4500
1/16 0100 1-1/4 2000 - 4600
- 0150 - 2100 - 4700
1/8 0200 1-3/8 2200 3 4800
- 0250 - 2300 - 4900
3/16 0300 1-1/2 2400 - 5000
- 0350 - 2500 4 6000
¼ 0400 1-5/8 2600 - 7000
- 0450 - 2700 5 8000
5/16 0500 1-3/4 2800 6 9000
- 0550 - 2900 7 9999
3/8 0600 1-7/8 3000 8 9999
- 0650 - 3100 9 9999
- 0700 2 3200 10 9999
- 0750 - 3300 11 9999
½ 0800 - 3400 12 9999
- 0900 - 3500 13 9999
5/8 1000 2-1/4 3600 14 9999
- 1100 - 3700 15 9999
¾ 1200 - 3800 20 9999
- 1300 - 3900 25 9999
7/8 1400 2-1/2 4000 30 9999
- 1500 - 4100 35 9999
1 1600 - 4200 40 9999
- 1700 - 4300 Etc. 9999
Double underline marks a change in increment

34
Attachment 4
RUNWAY VISIBILITY CONVERSION
RVR IN
STATUTE NAUTICAL KILO
HUNDREDS METERS
MILES MILES METERS
OF FEET
12 1/4 * 2/10 370 .4
16 1/4 2/10 490 .5
20 3/8 3/10 610 .6
24 1/2 4/10 730 .7
32 5/8 6/10 970 1.0
40 3/4 7/10 1220 1.2
45 7/8 8/10 1370 1.4
50 1 9/10 1520 1.5
60 1-1/4 1-1/10 1830 1.8

* Helicopter Only

35
 Attachment 5

PRESSURE CONVERSION
Millibars (mb)* to Inches of Mercury (inches Hg)
_ _ _0 _ _ _1 _ _ _2 _ _ _3 _ _ _4 _ _ _5 _ _ _6 _ _ _7 _ _ _8 _ _ _9

094_ 27.76 27.79 27.82 27.85 27.88 27.91 27.94 27.96 27.99 28.02

095_ 28.05 28.08 28.11 28.14 28.17 28.20 28.23 28.26 28.29 28.32

096_ 28.35 28.38 28.41 28.44 28.47 28.50 28.53 28.56 28.59 28.61

097_ 28.64 28.67 28.70 28.73 28.76 28.79 28.82 28.85 28.88 28.91

098_ 28.94 28.97 29.00 29.03 29.06 29.09 29.12 29.15 29.18 29.21

099_ 29.23 29.26 29.29 29.32 29.35 29.38 29.41 29.44 29.47 29.50

100_ 29.53 29.56 29.59 29.62 29.65 29.68 29.71 29.74 29.77 29.80

101_ 29.83 29.85 29.88 29.91 29.94 29.97 30.00 30.03 30.06 30.09

102_ 30.12 30.15 30.18 30.21 30.24 30.27 30.30 30.33 30.36 30.39

103_ 30.42 30.45 30.47 30.50 30.53 30.56 30.59 30.62 30.65 30.68

104_ 30.71 30.74 30.77 30.80 30.83 30.86 30.89 30.92 30.95 30.98

105_ 31.01 31.04 31.07 31.10 31.12 31.15 31.18 31.21 31.24 31.27

* A millibar (mb) is equal to a hectopascal (hPa)

36
 SIGNIFICANT WEATHER PROGNOSTIC CHARTS

Significant weather prognostic charts (progs) (Figure 11-1) portray forecasts of selected weather
conditions at specified valid times. Each valid time is the time at which the forecast conditions are
expected to occur. Forecasts are made from a comprehensive set of observed weather conditions. The
observed conditions are extended forward in time and become forecasts by considering atmospheric and
environmental processes. Forecasts are made for various periods of time. A 12-hour prog is a forecast of
conditions which has a valid time 12 hours after the observed data base time, thus a 12-hour forecast. A
24-hour prog is a 24-hour forecast, and so on. For example, a 12-hour forecast based on 00Z
observations is valid at 12Z. Altitude information on the prog charts is referenced to mean sea level
(MSL) and compatible with aviation. Altitudes below 18,000 feet are true altitudes while above 18,000
feet are pressure altitudes or flight levels (FL). The prog charts for the conterminous United States are
generated for two general time periods. Day 1 progs are forecasts for the first 24-hour period. Day 2
progs are forecasts for the second 24-hour period. Day 1 prog charts are prepared for two altitude
references in the atmosphere. Forecast information for the surface to 24,000 feet is provided by the low-
level significant weather prog chart. Forecast information from above 24,000 to 60,000 feet is provided
by the high-level significant weather prog chart. The day 2 prog chart is prepared without regard to
altitude and is provided by the 36- and 48-hour surface prog chart.

U.S. LOW-LEVEL SIGNIFICANT WEATHER (SIG WX) PROG

The low-level significant weather prog chart (Figure 11-1) is a day 1 forecast of significant weather for
the conterminous United States. Weather information provided pertains to the layer from surface to
FL240 (400 mbs.) The information is provided for two forecast periods, 12 hours and 24 hours. The
chart is composed of four panels. The two lower panels depict the 12- and 24-hour surface progs that are
produced at Hydrometeorolgical Prediction Center (HPC) in Camp Springs, Maryland. The two upper
panels depict the 12- and 24-hour significant weather progs that are produced at the Aviation Weather
Center (AWC) in Kansas City, Missouri. The chart is issued four times a day; and the observation data
base times for each issuance are 00Z, 06Z, 12Z, and 18Z.

SURFACE PROG PANELS

The surface prog panels display forecast positions and characteristics of pressure systems, fronts, and
precipitation.

Surface Pressure Systems

Surface pressure systems are depicted by pressure centers, troughs, and, on selected panels, isobars.
High and low pressure centers are identified by "Hs" and "Ls" respectively. The central pressure of each
center is specified. Pressure troughs are identified by long dashed lines and labeled "TROF." Isobars are
shown on selected panels. Isobars are drawn as solid lines and portray pressure patterns. The value of
each isobar is identified by a two-digit code placed on each isobar. Isobars are drawn with intervals of 8
mbs relative to the 1,000 mb isobar. Note that this interval is larger than the 4-mb interval used on the
surface analysis chart. The 8-mb interval provides a less sensitive analysis of pressure patterns than the
4-mb interval. Occasionally, nonstandard isobars will be drawn using 4-mb intervals to highlight
patterns with weak pressure gradients. Nonstandard isobars are drawn as dashed lines. Examples of
standard isobars drawn are the 992; 1,000; and 1,008 mb isobars.

11-1
Fronts

Surface fronts are depicted on each panel. Formats used are the standard symbols and three-digit
characterization code used on the surface analysis chart. (See Section 5.)

Precipitation

Solid lines enclose precipitation areas. Symbols specify the forms and types of precipitation. (See Table
11-1.) A mix of precipitation is indicated by the use of two pertinent symbols separated by a slash.
Identifying symbols are positioned within or adjacent to the precipitation areas. Precipitation conditions
are described further by the use of shading. Stable precipitation events are classified as continuous or
intermittent. Continuous precipitation is a dominant and widespread event and, therefore, shaded.
Intermittent precipitation is a periodic and patchy event and unshaded. Shading is also used to
characterize the coverage of unstable precipitation events. Areas with more than half coverage are
shaded, and half or less coverage are unshaded. (See Table 11-2.) A bold dashed line is used to separate
precipitation with contrasting characteristics within an outlined area. For example, a dashed line would
be used to separate an area of snow from an area of rain.

11-2
 Table 11-1 Standard Weather Symbols

Moderate turbulence Rain shower

Severe turbulence
Snow Shower

Moderate icing
Thunderstorm

Severe icing
Freezing rain

Rain

Tropical storm
Snow

Drizzle Hurricane (Typhoon)

11-3
 Table 11-2 Significant Weather Prog Symbols

Intermittent snow Rain showers covering

half or less the area

Continuous rain Rain showers and

thunderstorms covering more
than half the area

SIGNIFICANT WEATHER PANELS

The significant weather panels display forecast weather flying categories, freezing levels, and turbulence
for the layer surface to FL240. A legend on the chart illustrates symbols and criteria used for these
conditions. (See Figure 11-1.)

Weather Flying Categories

The weather flying categories are visual flight rules (VFR), marginal VFR (MVFR), and instrument
flight rules (IFR). Ceiling and visibility criteria used for each category are the same as used for the
weather depiction chart. (See Section 6.) IFR areas are enclosed by solid lines. MVFR areas are
enclosed by scalloped lines. All other areas are VFR.

Freezing Levels

The surface freezing level is depicted by a zigzag line and labeled "SFC." The surface freezing level
separates above-freezing from below-freezing temperatures at the Earth's surface. Freezing levels aloft
are depicted by thin, short dashed lines. Lines are drawn at 4,000-foot intervals beginning at 4,000 feet
and labeled in hundreds of feet. For example, "80" identifies the 8,000-foot contour. Freezing level
heights are referenced to MSL. The lines are discontinued where they intersect corresponding altitudes
of the Rocky Mountains. The freezing level values for locations between lines is determined by linear
interpolation. For example, the freezing level midway between the 4,000 and 8,000 foot lines is 6,000
feet. Areas with forecast multiple freezing levels have lines drawn to the highest freezing level. For
example, with freezing levels forecast at 2,000, 6,000, and 8,000 feet, the analysis is drawn to the 8,000
foot value. Notice that not all freezing levels are identified with a multiple freezing level event.
Information about the 2,000- and 6,000-foot freezing levels in this example would not be displayed.
Surface-based multiple freezing levels are located over areas which have below-freezing temperatures at
the surface and above-freezing temperatures within at least one layer aloft. Freezing rain and freezing
drizzle (freezing precipitation) are associated with surface-based multiple freezing levels. The

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intersection of the surface freezing level line and freezing level contours encloses an area with surface-
based multiple freezing levels.

Turbulence

Areas of moderate or greater turbulence are enclosed by bold, long dashed lines. Turbulence intensities
are identified by symbols. The vertical extent of turbulence layers is specified by top and base heights in
hundreds of feet. Height values are relative to MSL with the top and base heights separated by a line. A
top height of "240" indicates turbulence at or above 24,000 feet. (The upper limit of the prog is 24,000
feet.) The base height is omitted where turbulence reaches the surface. For example, "080/ " identifies a
turbulence layer from the surface to 8,000 feet MSL. Thunderstorms always imply a variety of
hazardous conditions to aviation including moderate or greater turbulence. Generally, turbulence
conditions implied with thunderstorms is not depicted on the chart. However, for added emphasis,
moderate to severe turbulence surface to above 24,000 feet is depicted for areas that have thunderstorms
with more than half coverage on the surface prog. Intensity symbols and layer altitudes appear within or
adjacent to the forecast area.

USING THE CHART

The low-level significant weather prog chart provides an overview of selected flying weather conditions
up to 24,000 feet for day 1. Much insight can be gained by evaluating the individual fields of pressure
patterns, fronts, precipitation, weather flying categories, freezing levels, and turbulence displayed on the
chart. In addition, certain inferences can be made from the chart. Surface winds can be inferred from
surface pressure patterns. Structural icing can be inferred in areas which have clouds and precipitation,
above freezing levels, and in areas of freezing precipitation. The low-level prog chart can also be used to
obtain an overview of the progression of weather during day 1. The progression of weather is the change
in position, size, and intensity of weather with time. Progression analysis is accomplished by comparing
charts of observed conditions with the 12- and 24-hour prog panels. Progression analysis adds insight to
the time-continuity of the weather from before flight time to after flight time. The low-level prog chart
makes the comprehension of weather details easier and more meaningful. A comprehensive overview of
weather conditions does not provide sufficient information for flight planning. Additional weather
details are required. Essential weather details are provided by observed reports, forecast products, and
weather advisories. Weather details are often numerous. An effective overview of observed and prog
charts allows the many essential details to fit into place and have continuity.

36- AND 48-HOUR SURFACE PROG

The 36- and 48-hour surface prog chart (Figure 11-2) is a day 2 forecast of general weather for the
conterminous United States. The chart is an extension of the day 1 U.S. low-level significant weather
prog chart issued from the same observed data base time. These two prog charts make up a forecast
package. The chart is issued twice daily. The observation data base times for each issuance are 00Z and
12Z. For example, a chart issued based on 00Z Tuesday observations has a 36-hour valid time of 12Z
Wednesday and a 48-hour valid time of 00Z Thursday. The chart is composed of two panels and a
forecast discussion. The two panels contain the 36- and 48-hour surface progs.

SURFACE PROG PANELS

The surface prog panels display forecast positions and characteristics of pressure patterns, fronts, and
precipitation.

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Surface Pressure Systems

Surface pressure systems are depicted by pressure centers, troughs, and isobars. Formats used for each
feature are the same as used for the surface prog panels of the U.S. low-level significant weather prog
chart.

Fronts

Surface fronts are depicted by using the standard symbols and three-digit characterization code used on
the surface analysis chart. (See Section 5.)

Precipitation

Precipitation areas are outlined on each panel. Formats used to locate and characterize precipitation are
the same as used for the surface prog panels of the U.S. low-level prog chart.

FORECAST DISCUSSION

The forecast discussion is a discussion of the day 1 and day 2 forecast package. The discussion will
include identification and characterization of weather systems and associated weather conditions
portrayed on the prog charts.

USING THE CHART

The 36- and 48-hour surface prog chart provides an outlook of general weather conditions for day 2. The
36- and 48-hour prog can also be used to assess the progression of weather through day 2.

HIGH-LEVEL SIGNIFICANT WEATHER PROG

The high-level significant weather prog (Figures 11-3 and 11-4) is a day 1 forecast of significant weather.
Weather information provided pertains to the layer from above 24,000 to 60,000 feet (FL250-FL600).
The prog covers a large portion of the Northern Hemisphere and a limited portion of the Southern
Hemisphere. Coverage ranges from the eastern Asiatic coast eastward across the Pacific, North America,
and the Atlantic into Europe and northwestern Africa. The prog extends southward into northern South
America. The area covered by the prog is divided into sections. Each section covers a part of the
forecast area. Some sections overlap. The various sections are formatted on polar or Mercator
projection background maps and issued as charts. Each prog chart is issued four times a day. The valid
times are 00Z, 06Z, 12Z, and 18Z. Conditions routinely appearing on the chart are jet streams,
cumulonimbus clouds, turbulence, and tropopause heights. Surface fronts are also included to add
perspective. Other conditions will appear on the chart as pertinent. They are tropical cyclones, squall
lines, volcanic eruption sites, and sandstorms and dust storms.

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Jet Streams

Jet streams with a maximum speed of more than 80 knots are identified by bold lines. Jet stream lines lie
along the core of maximum winds. Arrowheads on the lines indicate the orientation of each jet stream.
Double hatched lines positioned along the jet core identify changes of wind speed. These speed
indicators are drawn at 20-knot intervals and begin with 100 knots. Wind speed maximums along the jet
core are characterized by wind symbols and altitudes. A standard wind symbol (shaft, pennants, and
barbs) is placed at each pertinent position to identify velocity. The altitude in hundreds of feet prefaced
with "FL" is placed adjacent to each wind symbol.

Example:

FL390

Cumulonimbus Clouds

Cumulonimbus clouds (CBs) are thunderstorm clouds. Areas of CBs meeting select criteria are enclosed
by scalloped lines. The criteria are widespread CBs within an area or along a line with little or no space
between individual clouds, and CBs are embedded in cloud layers or concealed by haze or dust. The
prog does not display isolated or scattered CBs (one-half or less coverage) which are not embedded in
clouds, haze, or dust. Cumulonimbus areas are identified with "CB" and characterized by coverage and
tops. Coverages are identified as isolated (ISOL), occasional (OCNL), and frequent (FRQ). Isolated and
occasional CBs are further characterized as embedded (EMBD.) Coverage values for the identifiers are:
isolated - less than 1/8; occasional - 1/8 to 4/8; and frequent - more than 4/8. Tops are identified in
hundreds of feet using the standard top and base format. Bases extend below 24,000 feet (below the
prog's forecast layer) and are encoded "XXX." The identification and characterization of each
cumulonimbus area will appear within or adjacent to the outlined area. Thunderstorms always imply a
variety of aviation hazards including moderate or greater turbulence and hail.

Examples:

ISOL EMBD CB
350 OCNL EMBD CB
xxx 450
xxx

Turbulence

Areas of moderate or greater turbulence are enclosed by bold dashed lines. Turbulence conditions
identified are those associated with wind shear zones and mountain waves. Wind shear zones include
speed shears associated with jet streams and areas with sharply curved flow. Turbulence associated with
thunderstorms is not identified. (Thunderstorms imply turbulence.) Turbulence intensities are identified
by symbols. The vertical extent of turbulence layers is specified by top and base heights in hundreds of
feet. Turbulence bases which extends below the layer of the chart are identified with "XXX." Top and

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base heights are separated by a line. Height values are pressure altitudes. For example, "310/XXX"
identifies a layer of turbulence from below FL240 to FL310.

Example:

310
xxx

Tropopause Heights

Tropopause heights are plotted in hundreds of feet at selected locations. Heights are enclosed by
rectangles. Centers of high and low heights are identified with "H" and "L" respectively along with their
heights and enclosed by polygons.

Examples:

300 220
L

Surface Fronts

Surface fronts are depicted on the prog to provide added perspective. Symbols used are the standard
symbols used on the surface analysis chart. Movements of fronts are identified at selected positions. A
vector with a number plotted adjacent to the vector identifies the direction and speed of movement. (See
Section 5.)

Example:

35

15

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Tropical Cyclones

The positions of hurricanes, typhoons, and tropical storms are depicted by symbols. The only difference
between the hurricane/typhoon symbol and tropical storm symbol is the circle of the hurricane/typhoon
symbol is shaded in. When pertinent, the name of each storm is positioned adjacent to the symbol.
Cumulonimbus cloud activity meeting chart criteria is identified and characterized relative to each storm.

Example:

Tropical Storm

Squall Lines

Severe squall lines are lines of CBs with 5/8 coverage or greater. Squall lines are identified by long
dashed lines, and each dash is separated by a "v." Cumulonimbus cloud activity meeting chart criteria is
identified and characterized with each squall line.

Example:

V V

Volcanic Eruption Sites

Volcanic eruption sites are identified by a trapezoidal symbol. The dot on the base of the trapezoid
locates the latitude and longitude of the volcano. The name of the volcano, its latitude, and its longitude
are noted adjacent to the symbol. Pertinent SIGMETs containing information regarding volcanic ash will
be in effect.

Example:

TUNGURAHUA
1.5S 78.4W

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Sandstorms and Dust Storms

Areas of widespread sandstorms and dust storms are labeled by symbol. The symbol with the arrow
depicts areas of widespread sandstorm or dust storm, while the symbol without the arrow depicts severe
sandstorm or dust haze.

Example:

USING THE CHART

The high-level sig weather prog is used to get an overview of selected flying weather conditions above
24,000 feet. Much insight can be gained by evaluating jet streams, cumulonimbus clouds, turbulence,
associated surface fronts, significant tropical storm complexes including tropical cyclones, squall lines,
sandstorms, and dust storms.

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