What does BLPY refer to on a METAR?

BLPY in a METAR refers to "Blowing Snow." This term is used to denote that snow is being lifted and driven by the wind, which can significantly reduce visibility and create hazardous conditions for pilots and ground operations. METAR reports are crucial for aviation safety as they provide real-time weather conditions at airports, and understanding these specific terms helps dispatchers and pilots assess the environment they are operating in.

While blowing spray, blowing dust, and blowing fog are concepts related to weather conditions, they are not represented by the term BLPY in METAR reports. Thus, recognizing BLPY specifically as referencing blowing snow is essential for interpreting METARs accurately.