Strange METAR
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Strange METAR
LOCKHART RIVER (YLHR)
METAR YLHR 030900Z 32007KT //// // ////// 27/26 Q1007
RMK RF00.0/002.4
F9/181/015/688
That is straight off the Airservices briefing. Also the same from the Aviation section of the BOM site.
What the heck is " F9/181/015/688" ?????
METAR YLHR 030900Z 32007KT //// // ////// 27/26 Q1007
RMK RF00.0/002.4
F9/181/015/688
That is straight off the Airservices briefing. Also the same from the Aviation section of the BOM site.
What the heck is " F9/181/015/688" ?????
the ////'s indicate information not being available, in this case the visability and the cloud information are not included as perhaps the equipment that measures those pieces of information is either no available or only operates between certain periods.
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That sort of temp/dewpoint split is very typical of the wet season up FNQ.
Wonder if the regulars up that way have been having fun?
Wonder if the regulars up that way have been having fun?
Last edited by MyNameIsIs; 3rd Mar 2010 at 09:06. Reason: spelling... i can't
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Those odd groups "F9/181/015/688" are usually only used "in house" by the met people. They are used to indicate such things as quality of the data or the sensors themselves and are usually edited out automatically before dissemination to users outside of BoM. Sometimes those groups can actually take up more space than the metar/speci itself!
The "/" figures are inserted when data is not available; either the sensors aren't working or else there isn't a person on duty to fill in the gaps.
Hope that helps.
Cheers,
Cn
The "/" figures are inserted when data is not available; either the sensors aren't working or else there isn't a person on duty to fill in the gaps.
Hope that helps.
Cheers,
Cn
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Cirronimbus - Love the handle - I've always vowed to fly around those, IF I ever see one.
What he said, but I'd also put $2 on
F9 - Peak wind @ 0900utc
181 degrees at 15 knots
Actual pressure 1006.88 hpa
Who knows, maybe I'll lose my $2
edit
What he said, but I'd also put $2 on
F9 - Peak wind @ 0900utc
181 degrees at 15 knots
Actual pressure 1006.88 hpa
Who knows, maybe I'll lose my $2
edit
Atmospheric Pressure Observing Standards
Pressure Observing Standards
• Barometer Comparisons. Each agency shall establish an agency standard barometer traceable to the standard of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Each agency shall also establish a system of routine barometer comparisons to determine corrections required to keep the station's pressure sensors within the required accuracy. See Table A-20.
Table A-20. Units of Measure, Range, Accuracy and Resolution of Pressure Parameters
Parameter Units of Measure Accuracy
Sea Level Pressure Hectopascals + or - 0.68 hectopascal
Pressure Observing Standards
• Barometer Comparisons. Each agency shall establish an agency standard barometer traceable to the standard of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Each agency shall also establish a system of routine barometer comparisons to determine corrections required to keep the station's pressure sensors within the required accuracy. See Table A-20.
Table A-20. Units of Measure, Range, Accuracy and Resolution of Pressure Parameters
Parameter Units of Measure Accuracy
Sea Level Pressure Hectopascals + or - 0.68 hectopascal
Last edited by Back Seat Driver; 4th Mar 2010 at 07:43.
////////////////
Raining heavily with some wind from the right.
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
and with wind from the left
Raining heavily with some wind from the right.
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
and with wind from the left
Last edited by Peter Fanelli; 3rd Mar 2010 at 12:10.
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I think BackSeatDriver's explanation is probably closer to the mark than mine. Not sure what F9 means but 181/015 certainly could be the max wind since 00Z (perhaps from a small storm or shower that dropped the 2.4mm of rain?). There are lots of groups appended to the raw messages that are (supposed to be) removed prior to dissemination to the end users.
Sometimes they indicate such things as the period of time that the wind speed or direction is averaged over (for eg). They will even add groups that show the battery voltage and internal temperature of the automatic weather station.If all of that stuff was not removed, decoding metars would be a nightmare!!! The 688 might be a message sequence number or some such thing. I doubt is would be indicating a pressure of 1006.88; I don't think they measure pressure to two decimal places.
The temp/dewpoint spread could be because of the humid conditions (wet season and it has rained there), the water that wets the wet bulb temp sensor could be almost dried up, or frogs could be sitting on the moist material around the wet bulb temp sensor (they do that and can affect the temps!).
I like Peter's take on indicating wind and rain; nice one.
Cheers,
Cn
Sometimes they indicate such things as the period of time that the wind speed or direction is averaged over (for eg). They will even add groups that show the battery voltage and internal temperature of the automatic weather station.If all of that stuff was not removed, decoding metars would be a nightmare!!! The 688 might be a message sequence number or some such thing. I doubt is would be indicating a pressure of 1006.88; I don't think they measure pressure to two decimal places.
The temp/dewpoint spread could be because of the humid conditions (wet season and it has rained there), the water that wets the wet bulb temp sensor could be almost dried up, or frogs could be sitting on the moist material around the wet bulb temp sensor (they do that and can affect the temps!).
I like Peter's take on indicating wind and rain; nice one.
Cheers,
Cn
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Why in this day and age should we have to decode a METAR anyway?
If you ask for a METAR in flight they don't read it to you in code!
They removed morse code from the radio licence requirements (and how many would remain current in that today?).
If you ask for a METAR in flight they don't read it to you in code!
They removed morse code from the radio licence requirements (and how many would remain current in that today?).
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"If you ask for a METAR in flight they don't read it to you in code!'
No, but "they" have to decode it to read it to you in language you will understand.
The original question was for a decode of the strange looking bit at the end. I wonder just how many people outside of the Met Bureau could correctly decode that bit of the message that was queried. So far, I'm not sure anyone has offered the correct interpretation of that part of that message. I've offered as much as I can; sorry that I can' t do better right now.
Not sure what morse code has to do with anything either.
If anyone does know what that odd bit means, I'd be interested to learn something. Please feel free to help out.
Cheers,
Cn
No, but "they" have to decode it to read it to you in language you will understand.
The original question was for a decode of the strange looking bit at the end. I wonder just how many people outside of the Met Bureau could correctly decode that bit of the message that was queried. So far, I'm not sure anyone has offered the correct interpretation of that part of that message. I've offered as much as I can; sorry that I can' t do better right now.
Not sure what morse code has to do with anything either.
If anyone does know what that odd bit means, I'd be interested to learn something. Please feel free to help out.
Cheers,
Cn
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The table A20 mentioned in BackSeatDriver's earlier post comes from America (and does not apply to us in Aus) and mentions pressure measured to an accuracy of +/- 0.68hPa but reported to a resolution of 0.1hPa. In Australia, pressure is measured to one decimal place and to an accuracy of +/- 0.3hPa. I don't think anyone in Australia measures pressure (for aviation purposes) to more than one decimal place.
I don't think anyone broadcasts metars etc in morse code. I thought it was only the navaids that use morse; is that right?
I agree with Superdimona's thoughts that plain language reporting would be a lot easier and the sooner that happens, the better.
I don't think anyone broadcasts metars etc in morse code. I thought it was only the navaids that use morse; is that right?
I agree with Superdimona's thoughts that plain language reporting would be a lot easier and the sooner that happens, the better.
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Cn, Thanks for your info re +/- .3 hpa.
The table A20, I posted above was from the 'Texas A&M University' website with the link provided by the 'World Meteorological Organization'
and includes as a member and agent in Australia, our 'Bureau of Meteorology'
As I first said I would only risk $2 on what I thought the METAR addition meant, but now after research (including Texas Uni, which displays the WMO data), I am prepared to increase my bet to $2.50.
I would appreciate your source of accuracy for air pressure measurements.
If you are a meteorologist, than I will just say 'thanks' and climb back into my box.
The table A20, I posted above was from the 'Texas A&M University' website with the link provided by the 'World Meteorological Organization'
-Official United Nations' authoritative voice on weather, climate and water, scientific organization.
As I first said I would only risk $2 on what I thought the METAR addition meant, but now after research (including Texas Uni, which displays the WMO data), I am prepared to increase my bet to $2.50.
I would appreciate your source of accuracy for air pressure measurements.
If you are a meteorologist, than I will just say 'thanks' and climb back into my box.
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Modern plain language? Something like;
Meteorology Observation for Lockhart River Aerodrome issued at zero nine hundred universal coordinated time on the ninth day of the present month. The wind blowing from three hundred and twenty degrees magnetic at seven nautical miles per hour. No measurements of cloud coverage, cloud altitude or horizontal visibility available. Temperature twenty seven degrees centigrade. Dewpoint twenty six degrees centigrade. Barometric altimeter setting which will cause the altimeter to read altitude above mean sea level for Lockhart River Aerodrome one thousand and seven hectoPascals.
This information is intended for entertainment and possibly educational purposes only. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Void where prohibited by law. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the Beaureau of Meteorology or anyone with any sense, for that matter. Some assembly required. List each check separately by bank number. Batteries not included. Contents may settle during shipment. Use only as directed. No other warranty expressed or implied. Do not use while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment. Postage will be paid by addressee. Subject to Council approval. This is not an offer to sell securities. Apply only to affected area. May be too intense for some viewers. Do not stamp. Use other side for additional listings. For recreational use only. Do not disturb. All models over 18 years of age. If condition persists, consult your physician or pharmacist. No user-serviceable parts inside. Freshest if eaten before date on carton. Subject to change without notice. Times approximate. Simulated picture. No postage necessary if mailed Australia . Breaking seal constitutes acceptance of agreement. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. For off-road use only. As seen on TV. One size fits most. Many suitcases look alike. Contains a substantial amount of non-tobacco ingredients. Colors may, in time, fade. We have sent the forms which seem to be right for you. Components individually tested. Slippery when wet. For office use only. Do not use in shower. Not affiliated with the Red Cross. Drop in any mailbox. Edited for television. Store in a cool, dry place. Please read instructions before use. Keep cool; process promptly. Post office will not deliver without postage. List was current at time of printing. Return to sender, no forwarding order on file, unable to forward. Not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages resulting from any defect, error or failure to perform. At participating locations only. Harmful or fatal if swallowed. Not the Beatles. Penalty for private use. See label for sequence. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. Do not write below this line. Falling rock. Do not mix old and new batteries. Lost ticket pays maximum rate. Your canceled check is your receipt. Add toner. Certain restrictions apply. Place stamp here. Avoid contact with skin. Sanitized for your protection. Be sure each item is properly endorsed. Sign here without admitting guilt. Employees and their families are not eligible. Beware of dog. Contestants have been briefed on some questions before the show. Limited time offer, call now to ensure prompt delivery. You must be present to win. No passes accepted for this engagement. Roaming charges extra. No purchase necessary. Based on actual events. Processed at location stamped in code at top of carton. Shading within a garment may occur. Use only in a well-ventilated area. Keep away from fire or flames. Replace with same type. Approved for veterans. Results not typical, your results may vary. Booths for two or more. Check here if tax deductible. Some equipment shown is optional. Price does not include taxes. Not recommended for children. Prerecorded for this time zone. Professional driver on closed course, do not attempt these maneuvers. Reproduction strictly prohibited. Make sure address shows through window. Expect delays. No solicitors. May contain peanut dust. No alcohol, dogs or horses. No anchovies unless otherwise specified. Restaurant package, not for resale. List at least two alternate dates. First pull up, then pull down. Do not accept if seal is broken. Call toll free number before digging. Driver does not carry cash. Some of the trademarks mentioned in this product appear for identification purposes only. Turn once during cooking cycle. Objects in mirror may be closer than they appear. Record additional transactions on back of previous stub. Unix is a registered trademark of AT&T. Do not fold, spindle or mutilate. No transfers issued until the bus comes to a complete stop. Package sold by weight, not volume. Your mileage may vary. Past performance does not guarantee future performance. It is not a solicitation, nor an offer to buy or sell any security or derivative. All opinions stated are made in good faith, but there is no guarantee that future results will be profitable. Please remain seated until the ride has come to a complete stop.
This supersedes all previous notices.
Meteorology Observation for Lockhart River Aerodrome issued at zero nine hundred universal coordinated time on the ninth day of the present month. The wind blowing from three hundred and twenty degrees magnetic at seven nautical miles per hour. No measurements of cloud coverage, cloud altitude or horizontal visibility available. Temperature twenty seven degrees centigrade. Dewpoint twenty six degrees centigrade. Barometric altimeter setting which will cause the altimeter to read altitude above mean sea level for Lockhart River Aerodrome one thousand and seven hectoPascals.
This information is intended for entertainment and possibly educational purposes only. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental. Void where prohibited by law. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the Beaureau of Meteorology or anyone with any sense, for that matter. Some assembly required. List each check separately by bank number. Batteries not included. Contents may settle during shipment. Use only as directed. No other warranty expressed or implied. Do not use while operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment. Postage will be paid by addressee. Subject to Council approval. This is not an offer to sell securities. Apply only to affected area. May be too intense for some viewers. Do not stamp. Use other side for additional listings. For recreational use only. Do not disturb. All models over 18 years of age. If condition persists, consult your physician or pharmacist. No user-serviceable parts inside. Freshest if eaten before date on carton. Subject to change without notice. Times approximate. Simulated picture. No postage necessary if mailed Australia . Breaking seal constitutes acceptance of agreement. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. For off-road use only. As seen on TV. One size fits most. Many suitcases look alike. Contains a substantial amount of non-tobacco ingredients. Colors may, in time, fade. We have sent the forms which seem to be right for you. Components individually tested. Slippery when wet. For office use only. Do not use in shower. Not affiliated with the Red Cross. Drop in any mailbox. Edited for television. Store in a cool, dry place. Please read instructions before use. Keep cool; process promptly. Post office will not deliver without postage. List was current at time of printing. Return to sender, no forwarding order on file, unable to forward. Not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages resulting from any defect, error or failure to perform. At participating locations only. Harmful or fatal if swallowed. Not the Beatles. Penalty for private use. See label for sequence. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. Do not write below this line. Falling rock. Do not mix old and new batteries. Lost ticket pays maximum rate. Your canceled check is your receipt. Add toner. Certain restrictions apply. Place stamp here. Avoid contact with skin. Sanitized for your protection. Be sure each item is properly endorsed. Sign here without admitting guilt. Employees and their families are not eligible. Beware of dog. Contestants have been briefed on some questions before the show. Limited time offer, call now to ensure prompt delivery. You must be present to win. No passes accepted for this engagement. Roaming charges extra. No purchase necessary. Based on actual events. Processed at location stamped in code at top of carton. Shading within a garment may occur. Use only in a well-ventilated area. Keep away from fire or flames. Replace with same type. Approved for veterans. Results not typical, your results may vary. Booths for two or more. Check here if tax deductible. Some equipment shown is optional. Price does not include taxes. Not recommended for children. Prerecorded for this time zone. Professional driver on closed course, do not attempt these maneuvers. Reproduction strictly prohibited. Make sure address shows through window. Expect delays. No solicitors. May contain peanut dust. No alcohol, dogs or horses. No anchovies unless otherwise specified. Restaurant package, not for resale. List at least two alternate dates. First pull up, then pull down. Do not accept if seal is broken. Call toll free number before digging. Driver does not carry cash. Some of the trademarks mentioned in this product appear for identification purposes only. Turn once during cooking cycle. Objects in mirror may be closer than they appear. Record additional transactions on back of previous stub. Unix is a registered trademark of AT&T. Do not fold, spindle or mutilate. No transfers issued until the bus comes to a complete stop. Package sold by weight, not volume. Your mileage may vary. Past performance does not guarantee future performance. It is not a solicitation, nor an offer to buy or sell any security or derivative. All opinions stated are made in good faith, but there is no guarantee that future results will be profitable. Please remain seated until the ride has come to a complete stop.
This supersedes all previous notices.