Unscheduled observations that meet special criteria will be reported as a ___.

• A. METAR
• B. SPECI
• C. AIRMET
• D. CWA

Answer: (B)

Unscheduled weather observations that indicate significant changes between routine checks are reported as a SPECI. In aviation weather, a METAR is the regular surface observation, usually issued on a fixed cadence. When something notable happens between those routine reports—such as a sharp drop in visibility, a dramatic lowering of cloud ceiling, the onset or arrival of severe weather, or a significant wind shift—a SPECI is issued to provide a timely special update. This keeps pilots and air traffic control informed of conditions that could affect safety. Other products like AIRMETs are general advisories for broader areas and lighter levels of weather, while CWAs are short-term advisories issued by ATC, not specific unscheduled weather observations.