American Meteorological Society Certification Weather Forecasting and Applied Meteorology 2

Question 1

What is the Global Forecast System (GFS) and who operates it?

Accepted Answer

A global NWP model operated by NOAA/NWS for weather prediction out to 16 days

Answer

The GFS is NOAA's operational global NWP model, producing forecast guidance out to 16 days at ~13 km horizontal resolution.

Question 2

Aviation weather forecasts use which product to describe expected conditions at an airport over 24–30 hours?

Accepted Answer

TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast)

Answer

A TAF is a standardized aviation forecast for conditions within 5 statute miles of an airport, valid for 24–30 hours.

Question 3

A SIGMET (Significant Meteorological Information) advises pilots of what?

Accepted Answer

Hazardous meteorological conditions affecting aircraft safety (severe turbulence, icing, volcanic ash)

Answer

SIGMETs are urgent weather advisories warning pilots of non-convective hazards including severe turbulence, severe icing, volcanic ash, and tropical cyclones.

Question 4

What is a Weather Watch vs. Warning distinction in NWS severe weather products?

Accepted Answer

A Watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather; a Warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent

Answer

NWS Watches indicate conditions are favorable for severe weather development, while Warnings indicate severe weather is imminent or occurring.

Question 5

Fire Weather forecasting focuses on what combination of variables?

Accepted Answer

Wind speed, relative humidity, temperature, and fuel moisture for wildfire risk

Answer

Fire weather forecasting integrates wind, relative humidity, temperature, and fuel moisture to assess wildfire ignition and spread potential.

American Meteorological Society Certification Practice Test

American Meteorological Society Certification Practice Test

American Meteorological Society Certification Weather Forecasting and Applied Meteorology 2