If thunderstorms are active near the airfield, what should you do before taking off?

When considering whether to take off in the presence of active thunderstorms near the airfield, the primary focus should be on safety and the potential hazards associated with such weather conditions. Thunderstorms can produce severe weather phenomena, including strong winds, heavy rain, lightning, turbulence, and even hail, all of which pose significant risks during the takeoff phase.

Choosing the approach of refraining from takeoff if thunderstorms are generating strong winds or heavy rain is critical. Strong winds can affect aircraft control, increase the risk of wind shear, and cause difficulty during climb-out, while heavy rain can reduce visibility and hinder pilot situational awareness. Additionally, the turbulence associated with nearby storms can complicate initial climb and lead to hazardous flying conditions.

In contrast, the other options could lead to unsafe situations. Taking off just because a storm is not directly overhead ignores the potential for rapidly changing weather conditions, which can present significant danger. Setting a wind speed threshold without considering the nature of the weather surrounding the airfield may not adequately account for wind shear or gusty conditions commonly found in storms. Similarly, the suggestion to proceed with caution in generally clear weather does not adequately address the risks associated with nearby active thunderstorms, where conditions can deteriorate quickly.

Thus, opting not to take