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Many weather occurrences, especially cloud formations, sometimes produce unique but also puzzling phenomena. Fallstreak holes are one such occurrence, but[...]

Many cloud formations always manage to put on a spectacular visual display, but Mammatus clouds can look ominous and threatening.[...]

Some cloud formations often result in some of the most awe-inspiring and spectacular displays nature can produce. Noctilucent clouds are[...]

The rainbow is arguably one of the most photographed and well-known meteorological phenomena on the planet. But what precisely is[...]

Earth's atmosphere consists of five distinct layers, with the exosphere making up the outermost layer. We examine exactly what the[...]

On the odd occasion, while looking at the horizon during sunset or sunrise, one may observe what looks like "multiple[...]

Meteorologists and weather enthusiasts alike are well aware of the critical role humidity plays in the creation of different atmospheric[...]

On the odd occasion, while looking up at the sky, one may notice a hazy rainbow-colored ring around the sun.[...]

Even though the vast majority of us have never observed the Northern Lights in person, most readers would have seen[...]

It may be one of the outermost layers of the Earth's atmosphere, but the importance of the thermosphere must not[...]

Earth's atmosphere consists of five distinct layers, with the stratosphere being the second, situated just above the troposphere. We examine[...]

Earth's atmosphere consists of five distinct layers. The mesosphere is the third layer, located above the stratosphere and below the[...]

Most readers probably heard of a land or sea breeze, especially during weather forecasts when discussing coastal weather conditions. But[...]

Most readers will know or at least heard of a cyclone, but very few are familiar with an anticyclone. In[...]

Most of us are familiar with the terms "hurricane, typhoon, and cyclone." It may be confusing and easy to assume[...]

As much as you already know about the weather and climate, there are still a few interesting and important facts[...]

If you live in a region where it constantly rains throughout the year, you may think you live in the[...]

In some circles, a large debate is raging about the location of the windiest place on Earth, but there are[...]

Frequent viewers of weather forecasts will be accustomed to hearing about warm & cold fronts. But exactly what they are,[...]

Often, one looks for specific answers to specific questions, especially regarding weather-related topics like home weather stations. Sometimes, though, one[...]

Even though they are both a form of water in its solid state and also occur when water is forced[...]

A number of severe weather events can lay claim to the title of "Deadliest Weather Phenomenon." We take a closer[...]

Many readers will be familiar with the weather symbols used in online and television weather forecasts, mobile apps, and printed[...]

It may be hard to imagine that the Moon, approximately 380 000 km or 236 000 miles away from Earth,[...]

Many clouds appear in very distinct shapes and sizes. Arcus clouds are one such example, but these cloud formations may[...]

Whenever you observe this phenomenon, you can easily mistake it for a strange colorless rainbow. Although you won't be completely[...]

Many readers may not have heard this term used before, but the chances are pretty good that you have already[...]

Air movement plays a critical role in the development of most weather conditions. But at ground level, the wind can[...]

A region's vegetation is largely the result of the prevailing weather conditions, while the vegetation influences its climate in return.[...]

Weather stations measure conditions at ground level, while weather balloons can take readings at altitudes of up to 40 km.[...]

Although the terms used in the title may sound unfamiliar, they all form part of the six types of global[...]

No, this is NOT what you think the name suggests. If you had a ceiling filled with balloons at a[...]

Pollutants and greenhouse gasses, including carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and chlorofluorocarbons, sometimes build up to dangerous levels in the atmosphere.[...]

If you ever experienced a sudden and noticeable change in weather conditions after entering a forest during a hike or[...]

Readers growing up in the late 20th Century may be familiar with the term "Hole In The Ozone Layer. During[...]

An observer once commented that "once seen are never forgotten," referring to a rare and breathtaking meteorological occurrence called Nacreous[...]

Under the right conditions, the different shades of sunlight shining through the clouds during sunset can create an awe-inspiring display.[...]

Ice masses that make up the world's glaciers contain roughly seventy percent of the world's total fresh water. And all[...]

A solar eclipse is one of the most anticipated & well-known celestial events that has been celebrated worldwide for centuries.[...]

Many people already own a home or personal weather station, including several small to medium businesses, raising the question of[...]

On rare occasions, strange flames or lights can be observed in the night sky at the top of tall buildings[...]

The Earth is blasted by large amounts of solar radiation every day. Although it is crucial for all life on[...]

Typically, wind is the result of air pressure changes over distance and the pressure gradient. But physical features on the[...]

All waterways play a crucial role in providing an adequate water supply to humans, animals, and vegetation and replenishing bodies[...]

Most clouds primarily develop due to atmospheric variables like heat, air pressure, wind, and moisture. Some, though, form as a[...]

Air pressure plays a crucial role in weather formation and has a major impact on the majority of meteorological occurrences.[...]

A common misconception exists that the hottest time of the day occurs during midday, while the coldest time occurs at[...]

Avalanches are common events that can cause devastation in snow-covered mountainous regions. But in the Tropics, a meteorological phenomenon known[...]

On rare occasions, one might get caught off guard by a sudden gust of warm, dry wind, seemingly appearing from[...]

Some readers will be familiar with the saying, "in the doldrums," referring to a depressed person. But the doldrums actually[...]

Often, we are so focused on familiar storm systems like hurricanes, tornadoes, and blizzards, that larger and often more dangerous[...]

On the odd occasion, under the right conditions, a sudden unexpected downpour of rain with extreme wind gusts can occur[...]

Readers may be familiar with a movie scene or documentary where one sees a distant "lush oasis" in the desert,[...]

On the odd occasion, regular viewers of weather forecasts will notice two large tropical cyclones close to each other on[...]

Most weather enthusiasts know what a hurricane is and the dangers it poses to all in its path. But what[...]

We are all well aware of the danger and potentially devastating effects of Global Warming and Climate Change. But does[...]

The movement of water is all around us. Rain, snow, and the clouds they fall from are part of it.[...]

Most of us are familiar with surface winds caused by temperature gradients and changes in topography. But few readers are[...]

Despite its brown or yellowish tint, smog can appear very similar and easily be mistaken for fog or mist. Unfortunately,[...]

When you live on the coast and travel inland to a region situated at a higher altitude, you quickly realize[...]

Many individuals prefer a nicely tanned skin. You just feel and look more healthy and attractive. Despite health warnings, many[...]

The measuring of rainfall is an age-old practice that communities have been engaging with for centuries throughout the world. And[...]

Several different instruments are used in combination to determine current atmospheric conditions and make weather predictions. We examine one such[...]

More than 8 000 satellites are currently orbiting Earth, of which 4 853 are still active. They serve a wide[...]

Readers living in an arid or semi-arid region characterized by loose dry soil, will be very familiar with dust storms.[...]

All readers will know what sunlight is and that it is the result of solar radiation. But this is just[...]

Whether you are a frequent flyer or occasionally take a flight for a long overdue vacation, the chances are good[...]

Many readers will be familiar with the impact of warm & cold fronts, winds, and other variables on changes in[...]

Precipitation, the umbrella term that incorporates rainfall, snow, hail, fog, and mist, among others, forms one of the most important[...]

We experience them every day and, over time, learn to associate them with different weather conditions. In fact, most of[...]

Typically, rain is associated with the presence of clouds. Occasionally, though, rain falls from a seemingly cloudless sky. This meteorological[...]

Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be familiar with cold and warm fronts. But a lesser-known frontal system known as[...]

Most readers will not even begin to imagine wildfires associated with regions in the Arctic Circle. However, this is precisely[...]

Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be familiar with cold and warm fronts and their impact on weather conditions. But[...]

Over the past two centuries, global temperatures have shown an alarming increase in record highs. As a result, a meteorological[...]

Many readers "know for certain" that a raindrop is in the shape of a teardrop. Unfortunately, this is a common[...]

We as humans do not come naturally well equipped when it comes to coping with hot or cold weather. Wild[...]

The word "blizzard" often gets tossed around and used very loosely when referring to cold stormy weather. However, an actual[...]

Most readers have already experienced fog or mist in some form, sometimes without even realizing it. Although they appear almost[...]

One type of meteorological event almost every reader will be familiar with is wind. In this article, we examine what[...]

Specific climate and weather patterns are not only observed regionally or globally but are often also experienced on a much[...]

If you live at the coast or just visit it on the odd occasion, you tend to pay more attention[...]

We all get upset with weather forecasters when they "get it wrong," and our plans are completely ruined. A "sunny[...]

Global temperatures have been on the increase since the end of the 19th Century, and with it, the size and[...]

One of the most crucial functions of any weather station is the ability to measure atmospheric pressure, which is done[...]

Renewable energy from weather-related resources is increasingly used to supplement conventional power sources. But whether it is capable of replacing[...]

When you look at the sky in the middle of a clear, sunny day, you are almost guaranteed to observe[...]

Some have been around for centuries, while new ones are formed every day, but weather myths and misconceptions about certain[...]

Currently, very few people still deny the reality of climate change and its influence on weather events around the world.[...]

Extended exposure to the elements of weather and climate has major effects on the physical environment. This is known as[...]

Some readers may have heard of what is known as the summer and winter solstice. They primarily refer to the[...]

Most readers have seen a lightning strike during a thunderstorm in person or on a computer/television screen at some point.[...]

Some weather enthusiasts may be unfamiliar with Chinook (or Föehn) winds, but they are simply variations of the same meteorological[...]

Atmospheric temperatures generally drop as altitude increases above the Earth's surface, as many of us have experienced. But during a[...]

Evaporation & condensation are two crucial meteorological processes that are essential for the formation of different weather patterns. We examine[...]

Local weather conditions may often differ slightly from broader regional weather. But an Urban Heat Island, commonly experienced in cities[...]

In recent times, two weather phenomena known as El Niño and La Niña started to get widespread attention due to[...]

Mainly due to its negative association with Global Warming, many readers will be familiar with carbon dioxide. We take a[...]

Today, there is no shortage of choice when it comes to choosing a thermometer, from the trusty old mercury thermometer[...]

Weather enthusiasts may have heard of a storm glass, also known as weather glass or a weather globe. But what[...]

In today's connected world, we have almost unlimited access to weather forecasts across different platforms. But by simply observing cloud[...]

We often briefly look up at the skies in the morning to see how cloudy it is before heading off[...]

Weather enthusiasts will be familiar with the different ways of collecting meteorological data but don't always realize the importance of[...]

Weather forecasts are usually accompanied by maps covered with different symbols, lines, and colors. Meteorologists use these synoptic weather maps[...]

Weather and climate are among some of the most discussed topics worldwide and are often mistakenly used interchangeably. We take[...]

We are all guilty of blaming the Weather Service when a forecast is off, and the weather takes a turn[...]

In recent times, a phenomenon called a Polar Vortex started to get a lot of public and media attention due[...]

Occasionally, you may notice a hazy-looking ring around the Moon visible through a thin layer of clouds in the evening.[...]

Our weather can get pretty extreme and downright weird at times, and we experienced some extraordinary meteorological events in recent[...]

Most readers will be familiar with thermometers and know they are used to measure temperature. Although weather thermometers work on[...]

When looking at the sky on a cloud-free day, one will see what seems to be a continuous piece of[...]

Although they may be similar in some ways, snow, ice, and hail are not just very different in the way[...]

Weather balloons are sometimes mentioned during weather forecasts and meteorological discussions. For many readers, though, it may be unclear what[...]

Many of us will remember a parent calling us inside while playing outside in the rain, "not to get a[...]

Occasionally, a light breeze will turn into a strong, persistent wind that makes just staying on your feet a battle.[...]

We often here the term "Dew Point" mentioned during weather forecasts or meteorological discussions. This post examines what precisely dew[...]

Although some readers may be familiar with this meteorological phenomenon, others may never have heard of the Coriolis Effect. We[...]

Some have never seen one in person, while others may experience multiple events in a single year, but most readers[...]

When setting up your home weather station, especially more advanced systems with an array of outdoor sensors, it can become[...]

For many of us used to working with personal weather stations, it's remarkable how accurate and advanced today's indoor weather[...]

Most readers will more than welcome the ability to forecast the weather up to a month in advance. Unfortunately, this[...]

For over half a century, weather forecasts determined and helped us plan for future weather conditions. But 11 meteorological terms[...]

Most people rely on weather forecasts to see how the weather will behave. But by observing certain atmospheric conditions, nature,[...]

Personal or home weather stations are increasing in popularity in homes and businesses. The majority of them can measure a[...]

Receiving & unboxing a new weather station is an exciting part of owning a weather station. However, there are a[...]

Most of us have a pretty good understanding of the purpose of weather stations typically used by large weather bureaus.[...]

It would be fair to say that most of us have been more than annoyed with inaccurate weather forecasts on[...]