METAR weather code reference for VV (Vertical Visibility)
Reported when the sky is completely obscured (typically by fog, heavy precipitation, or blowing snow) and individual cloud layers cannot be identified. The number following VV indicates how far upward the observer or sensor can see, in hundreds of feet. VV represents an indefinite ceiling and always indicates IFR conditions.
Here are common ways VV appears in real METAR observations:
VV002VV005VV010These METAR codes are commonly seen alongside VV or describe related weather phenomena:
Complete cloud coverage of 8/8 of the sky. An overcast layer is always a ceiling. The height reported is the ceiling height in hundreds of feet AGL. Low overcast layers (e.g., OVC005) represent IFR conditions and may require instrument approaches for landing.
A visible aggregate of microscopic water droplets suspended at the earth's surface that reduces visibility to less than 5/8 of a statute mile. Fog is one of the most common causes of IFR conditions and flight delays. When visibility improves above 5/8 mile, the observation changes from FG to BR (mist).
Microscopic water droplets or wet hygroscopic particles suspended in the atmosphere, reducing visibility to between 5/8 of a mile and 6 miles. The abbreviation comes from the French word 'brume.' Affectionately known among pilots as 'baby rain,' BR is one of the most frequently reported obscurations and often accompanies low ceilings and stable air.