Definition
In a METAR, SS is the weather code reported for a sandstorm — strong, sustained winds carrying large quantities of sand particles through the air, reducing surface visibility, typically to less than 5/8 statute mile.
Plain English
SS in a weather report tells you that strong winds are blowing sand around at the airport, badly reducing how far you can see.
Context Anchor
You will see SS in the present weather part of an airport weather report, especially for dry, sandy regions with strong surface winds.
Why Pilots Care
Sandstorms cut visibility sharply and can damage engines or sandblast surfaces, often forcing delays or route changes.
Grounding Statement
Picture wind filling the air with sand so thick that the airport environment starts to disappear from view.
Intuition Check
Do not read SS as just a little sand blowing across the ramp. In a METAR, SS means a sandstorm severe enough to seriously reduce visibility.
Example Sentence 1
The METAR for the desert airfield included +SS, indicating a heavy sandstorm with severely reduced visibility.
Example Sentence 2
When SS appears in the weather report, pilots check runway visibility and consider diverting to a clearer airport.