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Learning Objectives: Learn how to decode METARs and TAFs. Learn how to plot soundings and how to interpret them.
For example: KGFK 151834Z 19028G38KT 1/2SM BLSN FEW006 OVC055 M12/M13 A2946 RMK AO2 PK WND 18033/1828 SLP028 P0000 T11171133
Decoded: Grand Forks Airport, the 15th of the month at 18:34 Z, winds from 190° at 28 knots gusting to 38 knots, 1/2 statute mile visibility, present weather blowing snow, few clouds 600 ft, overcast clouds at 5500 ft, temperature is -12°C and dew point temperature -13°C, altimeter reporting 29.46 in. Hg, Remarks, automated reporting station, peak wind 180° at 33 knots at 18:28 Z, sea level pressure 1002.8 mb, 0 inches precipitation recorded, precise temperature -11.7°C precise dew point temperature -13.3°C.
For example: KCDC 161836Z 1619/1718 35012G20KT P6SM -SHSN OVC020
Decoded: Valid beginning on the 16th at 19Z to the 17th at 18Z, wind 350 at 12 knots gusting to 20 knots, visibility more than 6 statute miles, present weather light snow showers, overcast clouds 2,000 ft
A sounding is a measurement tool used to obtain a vertical profile of the atmosphere. To view the data observed by it, we use a chart known as a skew-T log-p diagram, where temperature is plotted on a skew and pressure increases logarithmically with height. Once the data is plotted, important features of the atmosphere can be observed.
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