Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What is a potential weather hazard associated with a warm front?

1. Heavy snowfall

2. Sudden thunderstorms

3. Stagnant air and fog

4. Extreme heat

The correct answer is: Stagnant air and fog

A warm front is characterized by the leading edge of warmer air mass pushing into a cooler air mass. As the warm air rises over the cooler air, it gradually cools and condenses, leading to the formation of clouds. This process often results in extensive cloud cover and precipitation, typically in the form of light to moderate rain. However, it can also create stagnant air conditions and reduced visibility due to fog. Fog is commonly associated with warm fronts because the warmer air can cause moisture in the cooler air below to condense into tiny water droplets, leading to low-hanging fog. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the transitional period when a warm front is approaching, as the temperature increase can suddenly raise dew points and create a dense fog. While heavy snowfall, sudden thunderstorms, and extreme heat are related to other meteorological conditions, they are not the primary hazards associated with warm fronts. Heavy snowfall is more indicative of cold fronts or winter storms, thunderstorms often relate more closely to warm air masses colliding sharply with cold air masses rather than the gentle ascent typical of warm fronts, and extreme heat is generally associated with high pressure systems rather than warm fronts.