METAR

METAR is a coded report of observed weather at an airport. The report normally includes the station identifier, observation time, wind, visibility, significant weather, clouds, temperature, dew point, and altimeter setting. A METAR describes observed conditions. It is not a forecast.

How it works

A report is assembled from standard groups so pilots and dispatchers can read weather consistently. A routine report may begin with an identifier such as KPHX, followed by a time group such as 041853Z. Wind 24012KT means wind from 240° at 12 knots. Visibility 10SM means 10 statute miles or more in the United States format.

Cloud groups identify coverage and base height. SCT020 means scattered clouds at 2,000 ft above the station. BKN008 means broken clouds at 800 ft. Temperature and dew point appear together, such as 28/12. An altimeter group such as A2992 means 29.92 inHg.

Example

Consider this simplified report: KPHX 041853Z 24012KT 10SM SCT020 28/12 A2992. It identifies Phoenix, gives the observation time in UTC, reports wind from 240° at 12 knots, visibility of at least 10 statute miles, scattered clouds at 2,000 ft, temperature 28°C, dew point 12°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.92 inHg.

Why it matters

A METAR gives a time-stamped picture of conditions at one reporting station. Conditions can change between observations, and weather away from the station may differ. Read the observation time before using the report and compare it with current official information.

A TAF is a forecast for a terminal area. It answers a different question from a METAR. The NOAA Aviation Weather Center API provides current aviation weather products and documentation.

Related terms and tools

• TAF
• NOAA Aviation Weather Center API
• FAA Aeronautical Information Manual