What does the "W" in KOCOA-W refer to?

The "W" in KOCOA-W refers to Weather/astrological data. KOCOA is a military decision-making tool used for terrain analysis and operational planning, and it incorporates various elements that affect mission execution. Including weather as a factor is crucial because environmental conditions can have a significant impact on operations, affecting visibility, mobility, and overall mission success.

Studying atmospheric conditions helps military forces to make better-informed decisions about timing and tactics. Understanding the weather can prevent complications such as poor visibility during missions or adverse effects on equipment and personnel. Thus, integrating weather information into the KOCOA assessment adds an important layer of consideration for command decisions.