Final answer:
Weather conditions such as clouds, wind, and rain can significantly impair visibility, making driving unsafe. Access to instant weather information is crucial for decision-making, such as postponing travel plans or farmers determining when to plant or harvest crops.
Step-by-step explanation:
Weather conditions such as clouds, wind, and rain are a significant limitation for visibility and safe travel. At optimal locations, clear weather can prevail up to 75% of the time, lending to better driving conditions. However, visibility in fog can deteriorate to as little as a few feet, creating hazardous road conditions, especially for those unaware of how quickly weather conditions can change. The impact of weather is not limited to driving; for instance, farmers are highly dependent on weather forecasts to make decisions on when to plant or harvest crops. The advent of digital technology now provides instant access to weather information, enabling more timely and precise decisions than previously possible with sources like the Farmer's Almanac or the Weather Bureau of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
When considering a trip, it is crucial to check weather and road conditions beforehand. This may involve accessing online forecasts or even watching specialized channels for updates. Anticipating bad weather and visibility impairment, particularly due to fine particles (PM2.5), is essential for travelers. For example, as farmers adjust their schedules based on weather predictions, so should travelers adjust their plans to prioritize safety. The ability to postpone a trip in response to hazardous conditions can be critical to avoiding accidents and ensuring both personal and public welfare on the roads.