What generally happens to visibility during the approach of a cold front?

When a cold front approaches, the air mass in front of the cold front is typically warm and moist, while the air behind the front is cooler and drier. As the cold front advances, it lifts the warm, moist air, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation. This lifting often results in increased cloud cover and precipitation, which can reduce visibility significantly.

Additionally, the change in air temperature can also lead to turbulent conditions, which may further impair visibility. Pilots must be aware that visibility can decrease rapidly as the front moves through, especially if thunderstorms or heavy rain occur in the vicinity of the front. Thus, the general tendency is a significant decrease in visibility during the approach of a cold front, making it essential for pilots to adjust their approach and landing strategies accordingly.