How to read a METAR for the Part 107 test
The FAA Remote Pilot Study Guide uses this example:
KGGG 161753Z AUTO 14021G26KT 3/4SM +TSRA BR BKN008 OVC012CB 18/17 A2970 RMK PRESFR
| Part | Meaning |
|---|---|
| KGGG | Station identifier (K + three letters in the lower 48 states) |
| 161753Z | 16th day of the month, 1753 UTC (Zulu) |
| AUTO | Automated report (COR would mean corrected) |
| 14021G26KT | Wind from 140° at 21 knots, gusting 26 |
| 3/4SM | Visibility three-quarters of a statute mile |
| +TSRA BR | Heavy thunderstorm with rain, and mist |
| BKN008 OVC012CB | Broken clouds at 800 ft, overcast at 1,200 ft with cumulonimbus. The ceiling is 800 ft (the lowest broken or overcast layer). |
| 18/17 | Temperature 18°C, dew point 17°C. A small spread means fog or low cloud is likely. |
| A2970 | Altimeter setting 29.70 inches of mercury |
| RMK PRESFR | Remarks: pressure falling rapidly |
Could you fly a drone in this?
No. Part 107 requires 3 statute miles of visibility and 500 feet of clearance below clouds. With 3/4 mile visibility and an 800-foot ceiling, you're grounded, and a thunderstorm is overhead.
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Sources
Rules change. Check the current regulations before you rely on any of this. Not affiliated with the FAA.