What is the METAR abbreviation for haze?

The METAR abbreviation for haze is represented by the letters HZ. In aviation meteorology, specific abbreviations are used to convey particular weather phenomena concisely and effectively in METAR reports. Haze refers to the presence of fine particles in the air that can obscure visibility, often caused by pollutants or smoke.

The other options represent different weather conditions. For example, FG denotes fog, which implies a significantly reduced visibility due to moisture in the air. UP stands for unknown precipitation, used when precipitation is occurring but cannot be identified in terms of type. FZFG indicates freezing fog, which places emphasis on the condition of the fog being at or below freezing temperatures, potentially leading to icing.

Recognizing these abbreviations is essential for interpreting METAR reports accurately and understanding the implications for aviation safety and operations.