Plain English Meaning

VRB means the wind is shifting around so much that the report can't pin it down to one direction. Instead of giving a number, the report just says the wind is variable.

Full Definition

A code used in METAR reports to indicate that the wind direction is variable and cannot be reliably reported as a single direction. It is used when the wind speed is 6 knots or less, or when the wind direction varies by 60 degrees or more and the speed is greater than 6 knots.

Context Anchor

Seen in METAR aviation weather reports in the wind group, especially with light, shifting winds.

Derivation

VRB is simply a shortened form of 'variable.' The METAR format uses three-letter codes throughout, so 'variable' becomes VRB to fit the standard wind-group structure.

Why Pilots Care

Variable winds affect calculations and choice for and .