Here’s a pretty neat video about the mountain pass AWOS systems. We use these AWOS stations when we fly the Colorado Rockies. Knowing wind direction and velocity at the pass can help you to anticipate what side of the pass you’ll receive and updraft or downdraft, and how severe. Visibility and ceiling information helps a pilot decide what the clearance through the pass is and whether it’s a sane or insane idea to attempt to cross it.

If you want to learn more about aviation mountain weather and mountain flying, sign up for a one or two day mountain training seminar. Call 970-401-5105.