What does the temperature M20 indicate in the METAR for Jackson Hole?

What does the temperature M20 indicate in the METAR for Jackson Hole?

• A. 20 degrees Celsius
• B. 20 degrees Fahrenheit
• C. Negative 20 degrees Celsius
• D. Negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit

Answer: (C)

The temperature M20 in the METAR (Meteorological Aerodrome Report) indicates negative 20 degrees Celsius. In METAR reports, temperatures are often recorded with a preceding 'M' to signify that the temperature is below zero. This 'M' stands for "minus" and is crucial to interpreting temperatures accurately. For example, if the temperature reading was 20 without any preceding letter, it would represent a positive 20 degrees Celsius. However, with the 'M' prefix, it clearly denotes that the temperature is 20 degrees below zero, which is negative 20 degrees Celsius. Understanding this notation is essential for correct interpretation of weather conditions, especially in aviation and winter operations contexts. This detail ensures that those reading METAR reports can make informed decisions based on accurate temperature information.

The temperature M20 in the METAR (Meteorological Aerodrome Report) indicates negative 20 degrees Celsius. In METAR reports, temperatures are often recorded with a preceding 'M' to signify that the temperature is below zero. This 'M' stands for "minus" and is crucial to interpreting temperatures accurately.

For example, if the temperature reading was 20 without any preceding letter, it would represent a positive 20 degrees Celsius. However, with the 'M' prefix, it clearly denotes that the temperature is 20 degrees below zero, which is negative 20 degrees Celsius. Understanding this notation is essential for correct interpretation of weather conditions, especially in aviation and winter operations contexts.

This detail ensures that those reading METAR reports can make informed decisions based on accurate temperature information.