What does the term "overcast" indicate in weather reporting?

• A. A sky condition where clouds cover most of the sky
• B. A clear sky with few clouds
• C. A sky with intermittent rain showers
• D. A condition of high humidity and fog

Answer: (A)

The term "overcast" in weather reporting specifically refers to a sky condition where clouds cover most of the sky. This term indicates that significant cloud cover exists, typically with the cloud base at a certain height, leading to a uniform gray appearance in the sky due to the density of clouds. An overcast condition generally means that there will be little to no direct sunlight reaching the ground, which can impact visibility and may be associated with various weather phenomena.

The other options do not accurately describe the overcast condition. A clear sky with few clouds would not constitute an overcast situation, as it implies a largely unobstructed view of the sky. A sky with intermittent rain showers may suggest varying cloud conditions but does not specifically indicate the uniform cloud cover associated with overcast. Similarly, a condition of high humidity and fog pertains more to visibility issues due to moisture in the air rather than cloud cover itself.