Ceiling

The height above ground level of the lowest layer of clouds reported as broken (5/8 to 7/8 coverage) or overcast (8/8 coverage). A ceiling directly affects whether VFR flight is possible because VFR cloud clearance and visibility minimums must be met. In a METAR, the ceiling is the first BKN or OVC layer reported. If only few or scattered clouds exist, there is no official ceiling.