Lab 2: METARs, TAFs, & Station Plots

Purpose: To learn how to decode METARs, TAFs, surface, and upper-air station plots, which will increase your confidence and ability to use these skills throughout the semester when applying them to physical meteorological problems. Additionally, these skills will prepare you for interpreting maps and analyzing fronts later in the semester, which is particularly important for atmospheric sciences and aviation students.

Learning Objectives: Learn how to decode METARs and TAFs. Learn to decode and understand meteorological data at the surface and upper levels. 

How to decode METARs

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.

How to decode TAFs (Airport Forecasts)

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

Next Page: METARs