How are winds reported in METARs and TAFs?

In METARs (Meteorological Aerodrome Reports) and TAFs (Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts), wind information is reported in degrees true. This means that the direction of the wind is expressed as an angle measured clockwise from true north, which is essential for pilots to accurately understand wind direction for flight planning and navigation.

Using degrees true as a standard allows for consistent communication and eliminates confusion that might arise from differing magnetic declinations in various geographical locations. It is important for pilots to have this information accurately to assess their flight route, calculate drift, and determine approaches and departures, all of which are significantly affected by wind direction.

The other options, while relevant in different contexts (such as knots for speed or degrees magnetic), do not apply specifically to the reporting format used in METARs and TAFs.