Clouds & Icing
This cloud type is capable of producing severe turbulence, hail, and lightning.
What is cumulonimbus?
This aviation report gives real-time surface weather at an airport.
What is a METAR?
This is the first stage of a thunderstorm, dominated by updrafts.
What is the cumulus/developing stage?
This fog type forms when cold air moves over warm water.
What is steam fog?
This color typically represents the lightest precipitation intensity on radar reflectivity.
What is green?
This cloud type is most associated with widespread, steady precipitation and low ceilings.
What is nimbostratus?
This advisory warns of widespread weather that may affect smaller aircraft.
What is an AIRMET?
This is the most dangerous stage of a thunderstorm, containing both updrafts and downdrafts.
What is the mature stage?
This fog forms when warm moist air cools as it moves over a colder surface.
What is advection fog?
This radar feature appears as a curved extension on a storm and can indicate rotation.
What is a hook echo?
This type of icing forms quickly and spreads over surfaces due to large droplets.
What is clear ice?
This type of advisory is issued for severe hazards like volcanic ash or severe turbulence.
What is a SIGMET?
This strong, localized downdraft spreads outward after hitting the ground.
What is a downburst?
This fog is most likely during clear nights with light winds.
What is radiation fog?
This radar color usually indicates very heavy precipitation and possible hail.
What is red (or magenta)?
This cloud type is layered and often indicates stable air with possible IFR conditions.
What is stratus?
This product provides pilot-reported turbulence or icing conditions.
What is a PIREP?
Rapid changes in wind speed and direction.
What is wind shear?
This fog type forms as air is forced up a slope and cools.
What is upslope fog?
This radar signature shows a line of intense storms often associated with a cold front.
What is a squall line?
This type of icing forms when small supercooled droplets freeze instantly on contact, creating a rough, opaque appearance.
What is rime ice?
This forecast product helps pilots anticipate future weather at an airport.
What is a TAF?
This smaller, more intense type of downburst can cause extreme wind shear over a short distance.
What is a microburst?
This atmospheric condition enhances fog and haze by preventing vertical mixing.
What is a temperature inversion?
This is a major limitation of radar where precipitation closer to the radar blocks detection of storms behind it.
What is radar shadowing (or attenuation)?