Blog

Fallstreak Holes: What They Are And How They Form
Certain meteorological events, specifically cloud formations, often have unique but also puzzling characteristics. Fallstreak holes are one such occurrence, but[...]
Defining Mammatus (Or Bubble Clouds) And How They Form
Certain cloud formations always manage to put on a striking display, but Mammatus (Bubble) clouds look almost ominous and threatening.[...]
Noctilucent Clouds: Defining Night Shining Clouds And How They Form
Certain cloud formations can result in some of the most awe-inspiring and spectacular events nature occasionally puts on display. We[...]
The Rainbow – A Meteorological Phenomenon That Knows How To Put Up A Show
Rainbows are, without doubt, the most photographed and well-known meteorological phenomena on Earth. But what exactly are these events, how[...]
Facts About The Exosphere: The Outermost Layer Of The Atmosphere
Earth's atmosphere consists of five different layers, each with its own unique features. We examine what precisely the outermost layer,[...]
Defining A Sundog Or Parhelion And How It Occurs
On some rare occasions, while looking at the horizon during sunset or sunrise, one can observe what looks like "multiple[...]
What Causes Humidity? Defining Humidity And Its Characteristics
Meteorologists and weather enthusiasts are very well aware of the critical role humidity plays in the creation of different meteorological[...]
Solar Halos: Defining The Rings Around The Sun
On some odd occasions, while looking up at the sky, one may notice a hazy rainbow-colored ring around the sun.[...]
Facts About The Aurora Borealis: Defining The Northern Lights And How They Form
Although most of us have never observed the Northern Lights in person, most readers would most definitely have seen images[...]
The Thermosphere: Defining The Characteristics Of Earth’s Fourth Atmospheric Layer
Although it is one of the outermost layers of the Earth's atmosphere, the importance of the thermosphere cannot be underestimated.[...]
Facts About The Stratosphere: What It Is And Its Defining Characteristics
Earth's atmosphere consists of five layers, each with its own features. The stratosphere is the second, situated above the troposphere.[...]
Facts About The Mesosphere – What It Is And Its Defining Characteristics
Earth's atmosphere consists of five layers, each with its own features. The mesosphere is the third layer, located above the[...]
The Difference Between A Land Breeze And Sea Breeze
Many readers have heard of a land or sea breeze, especially during weather forecasts, while discussing coastal weather conditions. But[...]
Cyclones And Anticyclones: What Is The Difference?
Many readers will know or at least heard of a cyclone, but most are unfamiliar with an event known as[...]
What Is The Difference Between A Hurricane, Typhoon, And Cyclone?
Many of us are very familiar with the terms "hurricane, typhoon, and cyclone." It may be easy to view these[...]
22 Interesting & Important Facts About The Weather You Should Know
As much as you already know about the weather and climate, there are still a few interesting and important facts[...]
Rainiest Cities In The World: 12 Places With The Highest Rainfall In The World
When living in a region where it rains constantly throughout the year, you may think you live in the rainiest[...]
Windiest Place On Earth – A Look At The 11 Windiest Locations On The Planet
A large debate is raging in some meteorological circles about the location of the windiest place on Earth, a few[...]
Warm And Cold Fronts: What They Are And How They Differ From Each Other
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be accustomed to the terms "warm and cold fronts." But exactly what they are,[...]
101 Weather And Home Weather Station Facts & Tips You Need To Know
Often, one looks for specific answers to specific questions, especially regarding weather-related topics like home weather stations. Sometimes, though, one[...]
Freezing Rain vs Sleet: Understanding The Differences Between The Two
Although they are both forms of water in a solid state, which occurs when water is forced to cool down[...]
List Of The Most Dangerous Weather Conditions On Earth
Several severe weather events can rightfully claim the title "Deadliest Weather Phenomenon." We take a closer look at the most[...]
Understanding Weather Symbols Used In Forecasts To Know What To Expect From Future Atmospheric Conditions
Many readers will be familiar with the symbols used in television and online weather forecasts, mobile apps, and printed media.[...]
Does The Moon Affect The Weather? How Earth’s Only Satellite Is Influencing Our Atmosphere Conditions
It can be hard to imagine that the Moon, approximately 380 000 km or 236 000 miles away from Earth,[...]
Arcus Clouds: What They Are And How They Form
Some cloud types appear in very distinct shapes and sizes. Arcus clouds are one such example, but these cloud formations[...]
The Fogbow: Rainbow’s Less Glamorous Cousin
If you ever observed this phenomenon, you could easily mistake it for a strange colorless rainbow. You may not be[...]
Virga Rain: Explaining Virga And How It Occurs
Although many readers may not have heard this term used before, the chances are pretty good that they have already[...]
Defining A Shelterbelt And How It Works
The movement of air plays a crucial role in the development of most weather conditions. But at ground level, the[...]
Köppen Climate Classification: Defining The Climate Zones Of The World
Any region's vegetation primarily results from the prevailing weather conditions, while the vegetation influences its climate in return. The Köppen[...]
Weather Rockets: A Special Kind Of Sounding Rocket
Weather stations measure conditions predominantly at ground level, while weather balloons can take readings at altitudes of up to 40[...]
From Continental Arctic To Maritime Equatorial – The Six Types Of Global Air Masses And Their Characteristics
The terms used in the title may sound unfamiliar and confusing, but they all form part of the primary global[...]
Pilot Balloons: What They Are And Their Use In Meteorology
When you think of meteorological equipment, sophisticated or hi-tech devices often spring to mind. One might be surprised to learn[...]
Acid Rain: What It Is And Its Impact On The Environment
Many pollutants and greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and chlorofluorocarbons, can reach dangerous levels in the atmosphere. A[...]
Microclimates: What They Are And How They Form
Occasionally, you may experience a noticeable change in weather conditions after entering a forest during a hike or after driving[...]
The Effects Of Ozone Layer Depletion
Many readers growing up in the late 20th Century will remember the term "Hole In The Ozone Layer." It refers[...]
Mother Of Pearl Clouds: Explaining The Appearance Of Nacreous Clouds
An observer once commented that "once seen are never forgotten," referring to a rare, awe-inspiring meteorological phenomenon called Nacreous Clouds[...]
Crepuscular Rays: What They Are And How They Form
Under the right conditions, the various shades of sunlight penetrating the clouds during sunset can create an awe-inspiring display. These[...]
What Is A Continental Glacier And How Does It Form?
The ice contained in the world's glaciers makes up roughly seventy percent of the world's total fresh water. And all[...]
What Phase Is The Moon In During A Solar Eclipse? Examining The Difference Between A Solar And Lunar Eclipse
A total solar eclipse is one of the most anticipated & well-known celestial events that has been observed worldwide for[...]
The Numerous Benefits Of Owning A Home Weather Station
Many readers already own a home or personal weather station, including several small to medium businesses. It raises the question[...]
What Is St Elmo’s Fire?
On very rare occasions, a phenomenon characterized by strange "flames or lights" can be observed on tall buildings or structures[...]
Atmospheric Absorption – Shielding The Planet From Solar Radiation
The Earth is bombarded with large amounts of solar radiation every day. Although it is crucial for all life on[...]
Canyon Wind: What It Is And How It Forms
Wind is primarily the result of air pressure changes over distance and the pressure gradient. But topographical changes on the[...]
Ephemeral Stream: What It Is And How It Occurs
All waterways on land play a vital role in providing adequate water supply to humans, animals, and vegetation while replenishing[...]
Cap Clouds – What They Are And How They Differ From Lenticular Clouds
Most clouds develop due to atmospheric variables like heat, moisture, air pressure, and wind. But some form as a result[...]
The Adiabatic Process: What It Is And How It Occurs
The various characteristics of air are crucial to weather formation and have a major impact on most meteorological events. The[...]
The Hottest And Coldest Time Of The Day – When They Occur And Why
A very common misconception exists that the hottest time of the day occurs during midday, while the coldest time occurs[...]
Huayco: What It Is And How It Is Caused
Avalanches are common occurrences that cause devastation in snow-covered mountainous regions. But in the Tropics, an event known as a[...]
Heat Burst: What It Is And How It Forms
On very rare occasions, one may get caught off guard during a warm summer night by a sudden gust of[...]
The Doldrums – A Closer Look At The Intertropical Convergence Zone
Many older readers will be familiar with the saying "in the doldrums," referring to a depressed person. But the doldrums[...]
Derecho Storm – A Weather Phenomenon Unlike Any Other
Sometimes, we are so focused on familiar storm systems like blizzards, tornadoes & hurricanes that we often overlook larger and[...]
Microbursts: What They Are And Why They Are So Dangerous
On very rare occasions, and under the right conditions, a sudden, unexpected downpour of rain with extreme wind gusts occurs[...]
What Is A Mirage, And How Does It Occur?
Some readers will be familiar with a scene in a movie depicting a lost person seeing a distant "lush oasis"[...]
The Fujiwhara Effect: When Two Hurricanes Meet
Occasionally, viewers of weather forecasts may notice two big tropical cyclones close to one another on a weather map. The[...]
Why Hurricanes Were Assigned Female Names In The Past
Most readers will know what a hurricane is and the dangers it poses to everything in its path. But what[...]
Advantages Of Global Warming – Is There An Upside To Climate Change?
Most of us are well aware of the dangerous and potentially devastating effects of Global Warming and Climate Change. But[...]
The Water Cycle: The Endless Journey Of Water Across The World
The movement of water is all around us. Rain, snow, and the clouds they form in are part of it.[...]
Jet Streams: What They Are And Their Impact On Weather Patterns
Many readers are familiar with surface winds caused by temperature gradients and changes in topography. But few people are aware[...]
Smog: The Silent Threat in Urban Environments
As a result of its brown or yellowish tint, smog can appear very similar and easily be mistaken for "benign"[...]
How Altitude Affects Climate
If you live at or near the coast and travel inland to regions situated at higher altitudes, you quickly realize[...]
Can You Tan Through A Window? A Look At The Sun’s Ability To Cause Sunburn Under Different Conditions
In many Western cultures, individuals prefer nicely tanned skin. You just feel and look healthier and more attractive. Despite official[...]
Rain Gauges: What They Are, How They Work, And The Different Types Of Rain Gauges
The measuring of rainfall is a practice that communities have been engaging in for centuries throughout the world. The device[...]
Anemometers – What They Are, The Different Types, And How They Work
A wide range of meteorological instruments work hand in hand to determine current and predict future atmospheric conditions. One of[...]
Defining Weather Satellites – What They Are And How They Work
More than 8000 artificial satellites are currently orbiting the Earth, of which 4853 are still active. They are used for[...]
What Is A Dust Storm, And How Does It Form?
People living in arid or semi-arid regions, which are characterized by loose, dry soil, will be very familiar with dust[...]
Solar Radiation – What It Is, How It Forms, And The Different Types Of Solar Radiation
All readers will be well aware of what sunlight is, which is the result of solar radiation. But this is[...]
The Impact Of Weather On Aviation And The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Bad Weather And Air Travel
If you are a regular air traveler or a tourist taking a long overdue vacation, there is a good chance[...]
The Orographic Effect And Its Impact On Weather Conditions
Readers may be familiar with the impact of warm & cold fronts, wind, and other elements on weather conditions. A[...]
Defining Precipitation – What It Is And How It Occurs
Precipitation is the umbrella term used for meteorological events like rainfall, snow, hail, fog, and mist. It is seen as[...]
The Elements Of Weather And Climate And The Instruments Measuring Them
One experiences them every day and, over time, starts to associate them with different weather conditions. In fact, most of[...]
Rain Without Clouds – Defining Sunshowers Or Sereins, And How They Occur
Rain is usually associated with the presence of substantial cloud formations. But occasionally, rain can fall from a seemingly cloudless[...]
Stationary Fronts – What They Are And The Type Of Weather Associated With Them
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be very familiar with cold and warm fronts. A lesser-known frontal system known as[...]
Arctic Regions Are Literally Melting And Burning Away – Why It Is Bad News For Rising Sea Levels
Many readers will find it very hard to imagine wildfires occurring in regions in the Arctic Circle. However, this is[...]
Occluded Fronts – What They Are And How They Occur
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be familiar with the terms "cold & warm fronts" & their impact on weather[...]
Heat Waves – What They Are And How They Occur
During the last two centuries, global air temperatures displayed an alarming increase in average and record highs. This also led[...]
Defining The Real Shape Of A Raindrop And How It Deforms
Most readers will argue that a raindrop is undeniably shaped like a teardrop. However, this is a common misconception. The[...]
How Do Wild Animals Survive Extreme Cold Or Heat?
Human beings don't come naturally well-equipped when it comes to coping with very hot or cold weather conditions. Wild animals,[...]
Understanding A Blizzard – What It Is, Its Characteristics, And How It Occurs
"Blizzard" is often thrown around and loosely used when describing cold stormy weather. An actual blizzard, though, is such a[...]
Defining Fog And Mist – And How They Differ From Each Other
Many readers will be familiar with and already experienced fog or mist in some shape or form. Although they appear[...]
Defining Wind – What It Is & Its Impact On Local And Global Weather Patterns
One type of meteorological event almost every reader will be familiar with is what we commonly refer to as wind.[...]
The Effects Of Human Activities On Local Climate And Weather Behavior
Climate and weather patterns not only occurs on a regional or global scale but are often confined to smaller localized[...]
What The Weather Is Like In A Coastal Region & Why It Has A Moderate Climate
When living at the coast or just visiting it occasionally, one tends to quickly notice a change in weather conditions.[...]
What Causes Weather To Change, Change So Quickly, And Can It Be Predicted?
We all get upset with weather forecasters when they "get it wrong," and our plans are completely ruined. A "sunny[...]
What Is The Weather Like In A “Desert Climate”, And Why You Should Care
Since the end of the 19th Century, global temperatures have been on the increase, and with it, the size and[...]
The Barometer – What It Is And The Important Role It Plays In Meteorology
Arguably, one of the most critical functions of any weather station is the ability to measure atmospheric pressure, which is[...]
Can Renewable Energy From Weather-Related Sources Replace Fossil Fuels?
Renewable energy from weather-related resources is increasingly used to supplement conventional power sources. Whether it can completely replace fossil fuels[...]
Why The Sky Appears Blue – The Different Colors Visible In The Sky Explained
If you look up at the sky on a clear, sunny day, you are guaranteed to observe it having some[...]
22 Weather Myths And Superstitions Addressed, Explained, Or Debunked
Some have been around for centuries, while new ones are formed every day, but weather myths and misconceptions about certain[...]
How Weather And Climate Change Will Affect Your Business Or Occupation
In recent times, very few people still deny the reality of climate change and its impact on weather events around[...]
Weathering – What It Is, The Different Types, And How It Relates To Erosion
Our physical environment is heavily impacted by extended exposure to the elements of weather and climate. This is known as[...]
The Longest And Shortest Days Of The Year: When They Occur And Why They Are Not The Coldest Or Hottest Days As Well
Many readers will be familiar with the terms "summer and winter solstice." They primarily refer to the longest and shortest[...]
Defining A Lightning Bolt, How It Occurs, And The Effects Of Lightning On The Environment
The majority of readers have already seen a lightning strike during a thunderstorm, either in person, online, or on a[...]
Chinook Winds: What They Are And How They Form
Most weather enthusiasts will be unfamiliar with Chinook (or Föehn) winds, but they are simply variations of the same meteorological[...]
Defining Temperature Inversion And How It Affects The Weather
In our atmosphere, temperatures typically drop as altitude increases above the Earth's surface, as many of us have experienced. However,[...]
The Difference Between Evaporation And Condensation – And Their Impact On Weather Patterns And Conditions
Evaporation and condensation are two critical processes that are essential for the formation of various weather conditions. We take a[...]
What Is An Urban Heat Island And How Does It Affect The Weather?
In general, local weather conditions may differ from broader regional weather. However, Urban Heat Island, commonly encountered in densely populated[...]
The Difference Between El Niño And La Niña, And How They Impact Global Weather And Climate Patterns
In recent years, two weather phenomena known as El Niño and La Niña started getting widespread attention due to their[...]
The Effects Of Carbon Dioxide On Weather And Climate
Many readers are familiar with carbon dioxide, mainly due to its negative association with Global Warming. We take a closer[...]
Defining The Galileo Thermometer And How It Works
In modern times, meteorologists have a wide range of choices when it comes to measuring air temperature. But centuries ago,[...]
What Is A Storm Glass And How Does It Work To Forecast The Weather?
Some weather enthusiasts may have heard of a meteorological instrument called a storm glass, also known as a weather globe.[...]
How To Predict The Weather Using Your Cloud Knowledge And Your Home Weather Station
In today's connected world, we have almost unlimited access to weather forecasts across different platforms. But by simply observing cloud[...]
Cloud Types And Their Significance In Weather Formation
Often, we briefly glance at the skies in the morning to see how cloudy it is before heading off to[...]
What Is A Weather Radar And How Does It Work?
Most readers will be familiar with the different ways of collecting meteorological data, but some don't always realize the importance[...]
Synoptic Weather Maps – What They Are And How To Use Them
During Weather forecasts, maps covered with different symbols, lines, and colors are typically used. Meteorologists use these synoptic weather maps[...]
Understanding The Difference Between Weather And Climate
Weather and climate are among some of the most discussed topics worldwide and are often mistakenly used interchangeably. We take[...]
Why Meteorologists Use Historical Weather Data To Make Forecasts And The Importance For Your Home Weather Station To Do The Same
We are all guilty of blaming the Weather Service when the weather doesn't turn out exactly as predicted. Yet, it[...]
Defining A Polar Vortex And Highlighting Its Potential Dangers
In recent years, a phenomenon called a Polar Vortex started garnering much attention due to its devastating effects on countries[...]
Defining A Lunar Halo: Explaining The 22-Degree Halo Meteorological Phenomenon
Under the right conditions, observers will notice a hazy-looking ring visible around the Moon in the evening. This phenomenon is[...]
Extreme And Interesting Weather On Other Planets In Our Solar System
Earth experiences extreme and sometimes seemingly unexplainable weather events at times. But all these events pale in comparison to the[...]
Weather Thermometers: What They Are And How They Work
Many readers will be familiar with domestic or medical thermometers and how they measure temperature. Weather thermometers basically work on[...]
The 5 Layers Of Earth’s Atmosphere – What They Are And Their Characteristics
If you look at the sky on a cloud-free day, you will observe what seems to be a continuous piece[...]
The Difference Between Ice, Snow, And Hail – And How Each One Is Formed
Although they are similar in many ways, snow, ice, and hail are different not only in how they look and[...]
Defining Weather Balloons – What They Are And How They Work
The term "weather balloon" is sometimes mentioned during weather forecasts or meteorological discussions. For many readers, though, it may be[...]
The Effect Of Weather On Your Health – How Weather-Related Illnesses Affect Us
Many of us may remember a parent calling us inside while playing in the rain to "not get a cold."[...]
What Are Gale Force Winds And How Are They Formed?
On some occasions, a light breeze will turn into a strong, persistent wind that makes just staying on your feet[...]
Defining Dew Point And Its Impact On The Weather
The term "Dew Point" is often mentioned during a weather forecast or meteorological discussions. We take a closer loot at[...]
Defining The Coriolis Effect And How It Affects Our Weather
Some readers will be familiar with what is known as the Coriolis Effect, but others may never have heard of[...]
Defining A Tornado, How It Is Formed, And Its Main Characteristics
Some readers will never see one, while others experience multiple events in a single year. But most will be very[...]
13 Surefire Ways To Make Sure Your Home Weather Station Fails And A Few Related Weather Misconceptions
When setting up your home weather station, especially more advanced systems with an array of outdoor sensors, it can become[...]
How To Get An Accurate Reading And Forecast From Your Home Indoor Weather Station
For many of us used to working with personal weather stations, it's remarkable how accurate and advanced today's indoor weather[...]
How Far Ahead Weather Can Accurately Be Forecasted
Readers will more than welcome the ability of weather bureaus to make forecasts up to a month in advance. Unfortunately,[...]
11 Weather Terms And Phenomena You Should Know And Understand
For more than half a century, weather forecasts have helped us to plan for future weather conditions. However, eleven meteorological[...]
9 Ways To Predict The Weather Without A Weather Forecast Or Personal Weather Station
Most readers rely on weather forecasts to determine upcoming weather conditions. However, one can also "forecast the weather" by observing[...]
What A Weather Station Measures – And The Instruments Used To Measure Weather
Home (or personal) weather stations are gaining popularity in homes and businesses worldwide. Most of these instruments can measure a[...]
How To Install A Personal Weather Station – What To Remember And What To Avoid
Receiving & unboxing a new weather station is an exciting part of owning a weather station. However, there are a[...]
Home Weather Stations – What They Are And Why You Would Need One
Most readers have a good understanding of the purpose of the weather stations typically used by large weather bureaus. A[...]
The Difference Between Local And Regional Weather Explained – And How It Affects You
It would be fair to say that most of us have been pretty annoyed with inaccurate weather forecasts on more[...]

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