Which is a common first indicator of bad weather approaching?

Which is a common first indicator of bad weather approaching?

A. A buildup of dark clouds

B. A decrease in wind speed

C. A glassy sheen on the water surface

D. The development of a fog bank

Answer: A. a buildup of dark clouds

A common first indicator of oncoming bad weather is  buildup of dark clouds. Dark clouds, with special mention of cumulonimbus clouds, typically indicate that a storm is coming, or there will be heavy rain, or thunderstorms. Dark clouds are created when warm, moist air rises and cools, and moisture condenses into water droplets, creating a surface that appears to be darker in the sky. When you see the clouds darkening suddenly, or gradually getting darker, then you've been given good notice that the weather is deteriorating and you would consider taking some type of protective action.

There may also be other indicators that involve weather changes, like a decrease in wind, a glassy appearance of water, or fog bank development, but these would be considered these indicators to be secondary indicators, with none of these to a more direct visual cue of cloud building. Knowing how to identify a buildup of dark clouds is a needed skill for anything outdoors, boating, and for general safety to give some early warning that the weather may be hazardous.