How frequently are METAR observations typically taken?

METAR observations, which are routine weather reports issued for aviation, are typically taken every hour on the hour. These reports provide essential information for pilots and air traffic controllers regarding current weather conditions, including temperature, visibility, wind direction and speed, and significant weather phenomena.

The hourly frequency allows for timely updates on weather changes, which is crucial for flight safety and operation. While there may be special reports issued in between scheduled METARs when significant weather changes occur, the standard interval for routine reports adheres closely to this hourly schedule. This consistency helps in creating reliable weather patterns that can be used for flight planning and navigation.

In specific scenarios, such as busy airports or during severe weather events, updates may happen more frequently, but the foundational rule is that METARs are generated every hour.