Understanding the Weather

May 22, 2023
Dewpoint Temperature and Relative Humidity
The dewpoint temperature indicates the temperature at which saturation occurs. Relative humidity indicates the saturation condition of the air. Continue reading
Clouds
Atmospheric Moisture, Cloud Formation, Clouds, Five-Minute Meteorology, Water and Weather, Weather Basics
May 21, 2023
Clouds and Skew-T Diagrams
This post combines information from previous posts and connects these concepts to a video of a cloud formation. It examines skew-T diagrams from Georgia, showing how air and dewpoint temperatures relate to the cloud formation. The post encourages readers to plot their own skew-T diagrams to understand atmospheric conditions that produce clouds. Continue reading
Clouds, Data Interpretation, Skew-T
Clouds, Five-Minute Meteorology, Skew-T, Weather Basics
May 20, 2023
A Basic Skew-T Primer
Meteorologists rely on weather balloon observations, known as “soundings,” to gather direct evidence of current weather conditions at different atmospheric heights. Graphs like the Stüve diagram present challenges in representing this data. The skewed temperature axis on the skew-T diagram addresses this issue, providing a more upright depiction and additional detail. Continue reading
Data Interpretation, Skew-T
Five-Minute Meteorology, Skew-T, Weather balloon, Weather Basics
May 19, 2023
Basic Cloud Classification
The cloud classification system, still used today, was developed by British chemist Luke Howard in the 19th century. Cloud types like cumulus and stratus are derived from Latin words, describing appearance and height. Clouds are further categorized by low, mid-level, and high elevations, and combined to form terms like altocumulus and nimbostratus. Continue reading
Clouds
Cloud Formation, Clouds, Five-Minute Meteorology, Weather Basics
May 18, 2023
The Recipe for Cloud Formation
When a high concentration of water molecules in a small area of the atmosphere brings those molecules closely together, they begin to form bonds. We call this air saturated, and saturated air forms clouds. Continue reading
Clouds
Cloud Formation, Clouds, Five-Minute Meteorology, Weather Basics
May 17, 2023
Water’s Phase Changes: The Engine of the Atmosphere
The weather’s changeability is mainly driven by water’s ability to change phase: between solid, liquid, and gas. These phase changes create most of the weather variability and precipitation, and also play a significant role in severe weather events like hail, strong winds, and tornadoes. Continue reading
Clouds
Cloud Formation, Clouds, Five-Minute Meteorology, Water and Weather, Weather Basics