What are common warning signs that severe weather may be approaching?

Sudden wind gusts serve as a significant warning sign that severe weather may be approaching. These gusts can indicate the presence of changing atmospheric conditions, often associated with storms or other severe weather phenomena. Increased winds can lead to the development of severe storms, such as thunderstorms or tornadoes, where strong, gusty winds are commonly observed as these systems move into an area. Recognizing sudden wind changes helps in anticipating further weather developments, making it crucial for safety and operational decisions, especially in environments such as airports where ramp agents must remain alert for changing weather conditions.

The other options do not indicate the approach of severe weather: clear skies often suggest stable weather, rising temperatures can also occur with benign weather patterns, and calm winds may indicate a lack of atmospheric disturbance, further supporting stability rather than signaling an impending storm.