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Old 3rd November 2005 | 11:31
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DFC
 
Joined: Mar 2002
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From: Euroland
Cloud on the ground reducing the visibility to less than 1000m is Fog.

Thus - 27015 0700 FG OVC000

In a TAF or METAR, you will not get cloud layers reported above the base of the layer that is OVC (perhaps except CB but I would have to check that). The reason is twofold;

a) When making an observation, it is impossible for the observer to see through an overcast layer and see wht is beyond - if they could then it is not overcast; and

b) When making an approach as you descend, you are interested in when you will break cloud with a posibility of seeing the ground - that would not happen by descending through a layer that is above an overcast layer - hense it is not useful information (unless it is a CB?).

When delaing with enroute reports and forecasts (F215) then there can be several overcast layers reported - you may want to cruise between them!

Regards,

DFC
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