6.4 Weather Watch
Aviation forecasting, more than any other type of weather forecasting, exemplifies needs of the aviation customer and challenges the existing limits of meteorological science. The detail with which we specify weather conditions at an airport (essentially a "point") often extends beyond our forecast analysis and guidance.
While amendments are unavoidable at the present state of meteorological science, it is possible to anticipate and/or respond rapidly to changing clouds, visibilities, and wind which are critical to aviation operations. This fundamental duty of the aviation forecaster is called the "weather watch".
Definition: WEATHER WATCH ... Continual examination and analysis of observations (surface, RAOB, satellite, PIREPS, radar, etc.) and guidance on the available scale which best addresses the elements to be forecast and the information requirements of the user.
When preparing and/or monitoring aviation forecasts, the following are essential:
- Be aware of the current forecast for each TAF site.
- Use all of your resources (AvnFPS, satellite, radar, etc.,) to monitor for significant changes in the weather elements.
- Be familiar with operationally significant airport weather thresholds.
- Try and anticipate changes in the weather before they occur.