What action should a pilot take in response to a TEMPO condition during a preflight weather briefing?

In response to a TEMPO condition indicated in a preflight weather briefing, a pilot should file for an alternate if necessary. TEMPO conditions refer to temporary fluctuations in weather that are expected to be present for a short duration, typically less than an hour. These can include fluctuations in visibility, wind, and weather phenomena such as rain or thunderstorms.

Filing for an alternate is a prudent action because it ensures that the pilot has a backup plan if the weather at the destination airport or en route significantly deteriorates during the flight. It reflects a thorough assessment of the potential changes in weather conditions that could impact the flight, thereby ensuring safety.

While it may be tempting to only adjust the flight plan based on specific criteria, such as visibility changes or to disregard conditions altogether, these approaches could compromise safety. A responsible pilot must account for the possibility that the temporary adverse conditions could affect flight operations, hence the importance of having an alternate ready. Ignoring the forecast or proceeding without consideration would not be a reasonable approach to ensure safe flight operations.