🌦️ Surface Weather Observations Decoding Camp: Understanding Metar Reports
Did you ever want to understand and decode a surface weather observation? Well, this camp will provide the student with the ability to decode and know precisely what a real-world surface weather observation is displaying in real-time.
Michael P. Bielas
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(1,075)
Star Educator
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
In this four-day interactive camp, students will learn how to decode and interpret U.S. surface weather observations using the METAR coding format—the standard weather reporting system used by meteorologists, pilots, and weather enthusiasts. Students will first learn the METAR decoding key to establish a strong foundation, then apply their knowledge to real-world METAR reports using live data from Windy.com. Through hands-on practice, discussions, and guided analysis, students will gain valuable skills in reading and interpreting weather data. Class Schedule: ✅ Day 1: Understanding Observation Types – Date & Time, Location, and Wind ✅ Day 2: Visibility, Runway Visual Range (RVR), and Weather Phenomena ✅ Day 3: Sky Conditions, Temperature & Dew Point, and Atmospheric Pressure ✅ Day 4: METAR Remarks – Special Codes & Additional Weather Information What to Expect: 🌎 Hands-on decoding practice using real METAR reports 📖 A METAR decoding reference sheet for easy learning 🗣️ Engaging class discussions & Q&A to reinforce key concepts 💡 No homework required – just in-class application of skills This class is perfect for students interested in meteorology, aviation, and weather analysis.
Learning Goals
The student will learn how to decode an U.S. surface weather observation, understand the material, and apply this information in real time with practice.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
There will not be a formal third-party tool used in this class. However, we will be using Windy.com in class but there is no login information needed, outside usage by the student, and the platform is free to use open source. This will be used in class to provide real-time practice on decoding surface observations.
Supply List
There is a Metar decoding key that will be used in class. See attached document for reference.
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Metar Decoding information: https://www.weather.gov/media/wrh/mesowest/metar_decode_key.pdf
Joined September, 2017
4.9
1075reviews
Star Educator
Teacher expertise and credentials
Arizona Teaching Certificate in Science
Bachelor's Degree from Embry Riddle University
The teacher is a STEM certified, was a USAF meteorologist for 20 years, and enjoys teaching about science related classes.Reviews
Live Group Class
$68
for 4 classes4x per week, 1 week
55 min
Completed by 6 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
2-9 learners per class
