What does SCT030 indicate in weather reporting?

The correct interpretation of SCT030 in weather reporting is a ceiling of three thousand feet with scattered clouds. In aviation weather reports, the term "SCT" refers to "scattered," indicating the presence of clouds that cover between 1/8 and 4/8 of the sky. The number following the abbreviation denotes the altitude of the cloud base in hundreds of feet above ground level. Therefore, SCT030 specifically indicates that the base of the scattered clouds is at 3,000 feet.

Understanding this terminology is crucial for pilots as cloud coverage information is essential for navigation and flight safety. It helps pilots assess visual flying conditions and determine whether they can maintain the necessary visual references required for flying or approach procedures.