weather servicesFAA-published sample question (IRA, Aug 2021)
Interpret the remarks section of METAR surface report for KBNA. METAR KBNA 211250Z 33018KT 290V260 1/2SM R31/2700FT +SN BLSNFG VV008 00/M03 A2991 RMK RAESNB42
A
The wind is variable from 290° to 360°.
B
Heavy blowing snow and fog on runway 31.
C
Rain ended 42 minutes past the hour, snow began 42 minutes past the hour.✓ Correct Answer
Explanation
In METAR remarks, precipitation type followed by B (began) or E (ended) and the minutes past the hour gives start and stop times. The Aviation Weather Handbook (24.4.3.13.11) uses this exact example: RAESNB42 means rain ended and snow began at 42 minutes past the hour. The variable wind group and the heavy snow/blowing snow/fog are in the body of the report, not the remarks, and neither is decoded correctly by the other statements.
Related weather services questions
When the visibility is greater than 6 SM on a TAF, it isThe use of airborne weather-avoidance radar(Refer to FAA-CT-8080-3F, Figure 7.) What type of weather can be expected in the red scalloped area ...Decode the excerpt from the Winds and Temperature Aloft Forecast (FB) for OKC at 39,000 feet. FT 300...When does the National Weather Service release an Aviation Notification Watch Message (SAW)?
Keep practising
Study more FAA Instrument Rating questions, or take a timed practice quiz.