FREE SVOP Marine Weather Interpretation Questions and Answers

Question 1

While operating near the coast on a sunny afternoon, you notice a steady wind developing from the sea towards the land. What is this local wind phenomenon called and what is its primary cause?

Accepted Answer

A sea breeze, caused by the land heating up faster than the adjacent sea.

Answer

A katabatic wind, caused by dense air flowing downslope.

Answer

A land breeze, caused by the land cooling faster than the sea at night.

Answer

A trade wind, caused by large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns.

Question 2

You are observing your vessel's barometer and notice a rapid and steady fall in atmospheric pressure over a few hours. What type of weather should you anticipate?

Accepted Answer

The likely approach of a low-pressure system and deteriorating weather.

Answer

Prolonged period of calm, clear weather.

Answer

Stable conditions associated with a high-pressure system.

Answer

Formation of morning fog that will burn off quickly.

Question 3

According to the Beaufort Wind Scale, which of the following best describes the sea conditions associated with a 'Strong Breeze' (Force 6)?

Accepted Answer

Large waves begin to form; white foam crests are extensive and there is probably some spray.

Answer

Sea is like a mirror; ripples with the appearance of scales.

Answer

Small wavelets with glassy crests that do not break.

Answer

Exceptionally high waves; sea is completely covered with white patches of foam.

Question 4

A marine forecast for your area mentions 'advection fog'. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause this type of fog?

Accepted Answer

Warm, moist air moving over a colder sea surface.

Answer

The ground cooling rapidly on a clear, calm night.

Answer

Cold, dry air moving over much warmer water.

Answer

Rain falling from warm air into a layer of cooler air near the surface.

Question 5

When studying a surface weather chart, you observe that the isobars around a low-pressure system are very closely packed together. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

A strong pressure gradient and high wind speeds.

Answer

A weak pressure gradient and light, variable winds.

Answer

A stationary weather front with little air movement.

Answer

Improving weather conditions and clearing skies.

Question 6

A 'Strong Wind Warning' is issued by Environment Canada for a marine area. What range of wind speeds should a vessel operator expect?

Accepted Answer

20 to 33 knots

Answer

15 to 19 knots

Answer

34 to 47 knots

Answer

48 to 63 knots

While operating near the coast on a sunny afternoon, you notice a steady wind developing from the sea towards the land.What is this local wind phenomenon called and what is its primary cause?

While operating near the coast on a sunny afternoon, you notice a steady wind developing from the sea towards the land.
What is this local wind phenomenon called and what is its primary cause?