What is the maximum horizontal visibility that can be reported when conditions are extreme?

In the context of the Limited Aviation Weather Reporting System (LAWRS), the maximum horizontal visibility that can be reported during extreme conditions is set at 10 statute miles. This limit is established to ensure uniformity and consistency in how visibility is reported across various weather stations. When atmospheric conditions are optimally clear, visibility can indeed reach distances greater than 10 statute miles; however, LAWRS has capped this reporting to avoid exaggeration and to provide a standardized measure for aviation operations and safety.

Extreme conditions can refer to situations like severe storms, heavy snow, or fog, where visibility can dramatically decrease; hence, in normal reporting scenarios, parameters are defined to protect pilots and support safe navigation.

The options reflecting 12, 15 statute miles, or unlimited visibility exceed the threshold established within the system for reporting purposes. Therefore, these options do not align with the operational standards that have been developed for aviation weather reporting, which are essential for maintaining safety in flight operations.