How is scattered clouds identified in a METAR?

Scattered clouds are identified in a METAR report by the abbreviation "SCT." This term is used to indicate that clouds cover between 3/8 and 4/8 of the sky. METAR reports, which provide vital weather information for aviation, use specific abbreviations to denote the amount of cloud cover, allowing pilots and meteorologists to quickly assess flying conditions. In contrast, "FEW" is used for clouds covering 1/8 to 2/8 of the sky, "BKN" indicates broken clouds covering 5/8 to 7/8, and "OVC" signifies overcast conditions with more than 7/8 cloud cover. Understanding these abbreviations is essential for interpreting METAR reports effectively.