For a flight over MKC at FL 260, what approximate wind direction, speed, and temperature are expected?

In assessing the conditions for a flight over MKC at FL 260, the correct answer reflects the expected wind direction, speed, and temperature based on standard meteorological patterns and jet stream behavior.

Wind direction at higher altitudes tends to be influenced by the prevailing westerlies, particularly near the latitude where MKC is located. A wind direction of 260 degrees true aligns with these expectations, indicating that the winds are coming from the west-southwest as flights ascend to altitude.

The wind speed of 43 knots is also consistent with typical jet stream speeds at cruising altitudes. Jet streams can reach speeds of 40 knots or more, especially during favorable seasonal conditions, which supports the selected option.

Finally, a temperature of ISA +10 degrees Celsius indicates that the temperature at this altitude is warmer than the standard atmospheric level for that flight level, which can occur due to certain weather conditions, such as warmer air masses aloft. The International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) defines the expected temperature profile, and deviations such as +10 degrees Celsius can happen in specific weather circumstances, making this choice plausible.

This combination of wind direction from the west-southwest, a robust wind speed, and a temperature above the standard allows for a realistic understanding