What does "TEMPO" signify in a TAF?

What does "TEMPO" signify in a TAF?

• A. Permanent weather conditions
• B. Temporary fluctuations in weather conditions expected to occur
• C. A sudden increase in temperature
• D. Long-term forecast data

Answer: (B)

The term "TEMPO" in a TAF signifies temporary fluctuations in weather conditions expected to occur within a specified time frame. When included in a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, "TEMPO" indicates that brief and sometimes significant changes in weather are anticipated, such as a burst of rain or changes in visibility, for a limited period during the forecast's validity. This is critical for pilots and flight planners because it warns them that while the overall forecast may indicate stable conditions, there will be short-lived variations that can affect flight operations. By contrast, options like permanent weather conditions, sudden increases in temperature, or long-term forecast data do not accurately capture the transient nature of "TEMPO," thus highlighting the importance of understanding this specific terminology in TAFs.

The term "TEMPO" in a TAF signifies temporary fluctuations in weather conditions expected to occur within a specified time frame. When included in a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, "TEMPO" indicates that brief and sometimes significant changes in weather are anticipated, such as a burst of rain or changes in visibility, for a limited period during the forecast's validity.

This is critical for pilots and flight planners because it warns them that while the overall forecast may indicate stable conditions, there will be short-lived variations that can affect flight operations. By contrast, options like permanent weather conditions, sudden increases in temperature, or long-term forecast data do not accurately capture the transient nature of "TEMPO," thus highlighting the importance of understanding this specific terminology in TAFs.