In METAR reports, the term "TS" refers to which weather condition?

In METAR reports, the term "TS" specifically refers to thunderstorms. This abbreviation is used universally in aviation weather reporting to indicate the presence of thunderstorms, which can significantly impact flight operations due to severe turbulence, lightning, and heavy precipitation associated with these weather events. The use of "TS" is crucial for pilots and meteorologists, allowing for quick and accurate communication of weather conditions.

Understanding this designation is vital for ensuring safety and appropriate decision-making during flight planning and operations, as thunderstorms can create hazardous flying conditions. Other terms listed, such as temperature shift, turbulent skies, and trace snow, do not have the same established abbreviation within METAR reporting, further emphasizing that "TS" is definitively linked to thunderstorms.