The height of all layers, including the ceiling layer, is recorded in terms of feet above what reference point?

The height of all layers, including the ceiling layer, is recorded in terms of feet above the surface. This reference point is the actual ground level at the observation site and is critical for accurately measuring and reporting cloud heights and other atmospheric phenomena. By using the surface as the reference, the measurements are consistent regardless of variations in terrain elevation, which can influence how high clouds or weather phenomena appear to an observer.

Using the surface level allows for a standardized way of reporting weather conditions that can easily be understood and utilized for aviation and other operational purposes. This approach ensures that pilots and meteorologists have a clear understanding of the atmospheric conditions they are working with in relation to where they are situated on the earth's surface.