What is the function of SPECI observations?

SPECI observations serve a specific role in meteorological reporting. They are designed to provide unscheduled reports of significant changes in weather conditions that meet certain established criteria. This capability is crucial for maintaining updated and accurate weather information, especially for aviation and other sensitive operations.

When specific weather thresholds are met—such as changes in visibility, wind shifts, significant temperature changes, or the onset of precipitation—SPECI reports are issued to inform users of these important developments. This enables more timely responses to rapidly changing conditions, facilitating better planning and safety measures.

The focus of SPECI reports is on conveying critical updates that are not part of the routine observation cycle, which is why they are distinct from scheduled routine reports, automatic updates, or daily summaries. These functions emphasize the importance of real-time weather information in various applications where condition changes can impact safety and operations.