Blog
Fallstreak Holes: What They Are And How They Form
Some weather events, especially cloud formations, can sometimes produce unique and visually puzzling phenomena. Fallstreak holes are one such occurrence,[...]
Bubble Clouds: Defining Mammatus Clouds And How They Form
Although some cloud formations never fail to put on a spectacular visual display, mammatus clouds look ominous and threatening. But[...]
Noctilucent Clouds: Defining Night Shining Clouds And How They Form
Certain cloud formations can often result in some of nature's most awe-inspiring and spectacular displays. Noctilucent clouds are one such[...]
Rainbow Facts: What Is A Rainbow And How Does It Occur?
It is safe to say that the rainbow is probably one of the most photographed and well-known meteorological phenomena on[...]
Facts About The Exosphere: The Outermost Layer Of The Atmosphere
The atmosphere consists of five distinct layers, with the exosphere making up the outermost layer. This article examines exactly what[...]
What Is A Sundog – Defining A Parhelion And How It Occurs
On rare occasions, while looking towards the horizon during sunset or sunrise, one may observe what seems to be "multiple[...]
What Causes Humidity? Defining Humidity And Its Characteristics
Meteorologists and weather enthusiasts alike are well aware of the crucial role humidity plays in the creation of different atmospheric[...]
Solar Halos: Defining The Rings Around The Sun
Occasionally, when looking up at the sky, one may notice a hazy rainbow-colored ring around the sun. This phenomenon is[...]
Facts About The Aurora Borealis: What The Northern Lights Are And How They Occur
Although most of us have never observed the Northern Lights in person, the majority of readers will be familiar with[...]
Facts About The Thermosphere: What It Is, And It’s Defining Characteristics
Although it is one of the outermost layers of the atmosphere, the importance of the thermosphere must not be underestimated.[...]
Facts About The Stratosphere: What It Is And Its Defining Characteristics
The atmosphere consists of five distinct layers, with the stratosphere being the second, situated just above the troposphere. We take[...]
Facts About The Mesosphere – What It Is And Its Defining Characteristics
The Earth's atmosphere consists of five layers. The mesosphere is the 3rd layer, located above the stratosphere & below the[...]
The Difference Between A Land Breeze And Sea Breeze
One may have heard of a land or sea breeze, especially during weather forecasts when discussing coastal weather conditions. But[...]
Cyclones And Anticyclones: What Is The Difference?
Many readers will be familiar with a cyclone, but few observers know or never heard of an anticyclone. In this[...]
What Is The Difference Between A Hurricane, Typhoon, And Cyclone?
Many of us are familiar with the terms "hurricane, typhoon, and cyclone." It is easy to think that these storm[...]
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
If you live in a region where it rains 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 lot of debate is raging about the location of the windiest place on Earth, but there are a few[...]
Warm And Cold Fronts: What They Are And How They Differ From Each Other
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be very familiar with warm and cold fronts. But exactly what they are, how[...]
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 a form of water in its solid state and also occur when water is forced to cool[...]
List Of The Most Dangerous Weather Conditions On Earth
Several different weather events can lay claim to the title of "Deadliest Weather Phenomenon." We take a look at the[...]
Understanding Weather Symbols Used In Forecasts To Know What To Expect From Future Atmospheric Conditions
Most of us have seen the familiar weather symbols used on television and online meteorological forecasts, our mobile weather apps,[...]
Does The Moon Affect The Weather? How Earth’s Only Satellite Is Influencing Our Atmosphere Conditions
It is hard to imagine that the moon, approximately 380 000 km (236 000 miles) away from Earth, can have[...]
Arcus Clouds: What They Are And How They Form
Clouds sometimes come in very unique shapes and sizes. Arcus clouds are no exception, but these cloud formations may also[...]
The Fogbow: Rainbow’s Less Glamorous Cousin
Whenever you observe this phenomenon, you can easily mistake it for a strange colorless rainbow. Though you won't be completely[...]
Virga Rain: Explaining Virga And How It Occurs
You may not have heard the name before, but the chances are pretty good that you already experienced or observed[...]
Defining A Shelterbelt And How It Works
Air movement plays a crucial role in the development of weather conditions globally. At ground level, though, the wind can[...]
Köppen Climate Classification: Defining The Climate Zones Of The World
A region's vegetation results from its average weather conditions, while the underlying vegetation also influences its climate. The Köppen Climate[...]
Weather Rockets: A Special Kind Of Sounding Rocket
Weather stations measure conditions at ground level, while weather balloons take readings up to 40 km high. Measurements at greater[...]
Maritime Polar, Continental Tropical, Or Maritime Equatorial… The Types Of Air Masses And Their Characteristics
Although the terms in the title of this article sound confusing, they all form part of the six types of[...]
Ceiling Balloon: What It Is And Its Use In Meteorology
No, it is NOT what the name may suggest. If you imagined a ceiling filled with balloons during a party,[...]
Acid Rain Facts: What Is Acid Rain And What You Need To Know
Several pollutants and greenhouse gasses, including carbon dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons & nitrous oxide, are present in the atmosphere. A phenomenon called[...]
Microclimates: What They Are And How They Form
If you ever experienced a sudden and noticeable change in temperature and humidity after entering a large forest during a[...]
The Effects Of Ozone Layer Depletion
Readers growing up in the 1970s and 80s will be very familiar with the term "Hole In The Ozone Layer.[...]
Mother Of Pearl Clouds: Explaining The Appearance Of Nacreous Clouds
As an observer commented, "once seen are never forgotten" referred to a rare, unique, and breathtaking meteorological occurrence called Nacreous[...]
Crepuscular Rays: What They Are And How They Form
Under certain conditions, the different shades of sunlight penetrating through the clouds during sunset can appear almost surreal. This meteorological[...]
What Is A Continental Glacier And How Does It Form?
The ice masses making up the world's glaciers contain approximately seventy percent of the world's total fresh water. And continental[...]
What Phase Is The Moon In During A Solar Eclipse? Examining The Difference Between A Solar And Lunar Eclipse
A solar eclipse is one of the most anticipated & well-known celestial events that has been celebrated worldwide for centuries.[...]
Accurate Forecasting: Benefits Of Owning A Home Weather Station
Many people already own a home or personal weather station, including several small to medium businesses, raising the question of[...]
What Is St Elmo’s Fire?
On the odd occasion, seemingly inexplicable flames or lights can be observed in the night sky on or close to[...]
Atmospheric Absorption – Shielding The Planet From Solar Radiation
Earth gets bombarded by large amounts of solar radiation every day. Although it is vital for all life on the[...]
Canyon Wind: What It Is And How It Forms
Wind is usually the result of a change in air pressure over distance or the resulting pressure gradient. But physical[...]
Ephemeral Stream: What It Is And How It Occurs
All waterways play a crucial role in providing an adequate supply of water to animals, humans, as well as vegetation.[...]
Cap Clouds – What They Are And How They Differ From Lenticular Clouds
The majority of clouds develop as a result of different atmospheric variables like heat, wind & moisture. Some, though, form[...]
The Adiabatic Process: What It Is And How It Occurs
Air pressure plays a vital role in meteorology and has a significant impact on the majority of weather events. The[...]
The Hottest And Coldest Time Of The Day – When They Occur And Why
A common misconception exists that the hottest time of the day occurs during midday, while the coldest time occurs at[...]
Huayco: What It Is And How It Is Caused
Avalanches are well-known occurrences that can cause devastation in snow-covered mountainous regions. In the Tropics, though, a weather phenomenon known[...]
Heat Burst: What It Is And How It Forms
On rare occasions during a warm summer, one might get caught off guard by a sudden gust of warm, dry[...]
The Doldrums – A Closer Look At The Intertropical Convergence Zone
Some readers will be familiar with the saying, "in the doldrums," referring to a depressed person. But the doldrums actually[...]
Derecho Storm – A Weather Phenomenon Unlike Any Other
Often, we are so focused on familiar storm systems like hurricanes, tornadoes, and blizzards, that larger and often more dangerous[...]
Microbursts: What They Are And Why They Are So Dangerous
On the odd occasion, under the right conditions, a sudden unexpected downpour of rain with extreme wind gusts can occur[...]
What Is A Mirage, And How Does It Occur?
Readers may be familiar with a movie scene or documentary where one sees a distant "lush oasis" in the desert,[...]
The Fujiwhara Effect: When Two Hurricanes Meet
On the odd occasion, regular viewers of weather forecasts will notice two large tropical cyclones close to each other on[...]
Why Hurricanes Were Assigned Female Names In The Past
Most weather enthusiasts know what a hurricane is and the dangers it poses to all in its path. But what[...]
Advantages Of Global Warming – Is There An Upside To Climate Change?
We are all well aware of the danger and potentially devastating effects of Global Warming and Climate Change. But does[...]
The Water Cycle: An Endless Journey Across The World
The movement of water is all around us. Rain, snow, and the clouds they fall from are part of it.[...]
Jet Streams: What They Are And Their Impact On Weather Patterns
Most of us are familiar with surface winds caused by temperature gradients and changes in topography. But few readers are[...]
Smog: The Silent Threat in Urban Environments
Despite its brown or yellowish tint, smog can appear very similar and easily be mistaken for fog or mist. Unfortunately,[...]
How Altitude Affects Climate
When you live on the coast and travel inland to a region situated at a higher altitude, you quickly realize[...]
Can You Tan Through A Window? A Look At The Sun’s Ability To Cause Sunburn Under Different Conditions
Many individuals prefer a nicely tanned skin. You just feel and look more healthy and attractive. Despite health warnings, many[...]
Rain Gauges: What They Are, How They Work, And The Different Types Of Rain Gauges
The measuring of rainfall is an age-old practice that communities have been engaging with for centuries throughout the world. And[...]
Anemometers: What They Are, The Different Types Of Anemometers, And How They Work
Several different instruments are used in combination to determine current atmospheric conditions and make weather predictions. We examine one such[...]
What Is A Weather Satellite – The Different Types Of Weather Satellites And How They Work
More than 8 000 satellites are currently orbiting Earth, of which 4 853 are still active. They serve a wide[...]
What Is A Dust Storm, And How Does It Form?
Readers living in an arid or semi-arid region characterized by loose dry soil, will be very familiar with dust storms.[...]
Solar Radiation – What It Is, How It Forms, And The Different Types Of Solar Radiation
All readers will know what sunlight is and that it is the result of solar radiation. But this is just[...]
The Impact Of Weather On Aviation And The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Bad Weather And Air Travel
Whether you are a frequent flyer or occasionally take a flight for a long overdue vacation, the chances are good[...]
The Orographic Effect And Its Impact On Weather Conditions
Many readers will be familiar with the impact of warm & cold fronts, winds, and other variables on changes in[...]
Precipitation: What It Is And The Different Types Of Precipitation
Precipitation, the umbrella term that incorporates rainfall, snow, hail, fog, and mist, among others, forms one of the most important[...]
The Elements Of Weather And Climate And The Instruments Measuring Them
We experience them every day and, over time, learn to associate them with different weather conditions. In fact, most of[...]
Rain Without Clouds? How A Sunshower Or Serein Can Provide The Answer
Typically, rain is associated with the presence of clouds. Occasionally, though, rain falls from a seemingly cloudless sky. This meteorological[...]
Stationary Fronts – What They Are And The Type Of Weather Associated With Them
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be familiar with cold and warm fronts. But a lesser-known frontal system known as[...]
The Arctic Is Literally Melting And Burning Away, And Why It Is Bad News For Rising Sea Levels
Most readers will not even begin to imagine wildfires associated with regions in the Arctic Circle. However, this is precisely[...]
Occluded Fronts – What They Are And How They Occur
Regular viewers of weather forecasts will be familiar with cold and warm fronts and their impact on weather conditions. But[...]
Heat Waves – What They Are And How They Occur
Over the past two centuries, global temperatures have shown an alarming increase in record highs. As a result, a meteorological[...]
Defining The Real Shape Of A Raindrop And How It Deforms
Many readers "know for certain" that a raindrop is in the shape of a teardrop. Unfortunately, this is a common[...]
How Do Wild Animals Survive Extreme Cold Or Heat?
We as humans do not come naturally well equipped when it comes to coping with hot or cold weather. Wild[...]
Defining A Blizzard, Its Characteristics, And How It Occurs
The word "blizzard" often gets tossed around and used very loosely when referring to cold stormy weather. However, an actual[...]
The Difference Between Fog And Mist, And How Each One Occurs
The majority of readers have experienced both fog and mist in some form without even realizing it. Although they may[...]
Defining Wind, How It Forms, And The Different Types Of Winds
One type of meteorological occurrence every reader will be familiar with is wind. In this article, we examine what exactly[...]
The Effects Of Human Activities On Local Climate And Weather Patterns
Changes in climate and weather do not only occur regionally or globally but are often also experienced on a local[...]
What The Weather Is Like In A Coastal Region & Why It Has A Moderate Climate
Whether living near the coast or just visiting it occasionally, one tends to pay more attention to weather conditions. As[...]
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
Temperatures worldwide have been increasing steadily since the end of the 19th Century, and with it, the size and number[...]
Defining A Barometer And How It Works
One of the most crucial functions of any weather station is the ability to measure air pressure, which is done[...]
Can Renewable Energy From Weather-Related Sources Replace Fossil Fuels?
Renewable energy from weather sources is increasingly used to supplement conventional power sources. Whether it has the capacity to completely[...]
Why The Sky Is Blue – And A Few More Interesting Colors Visible In The Sky Explained
If you happen to look at the sky on a clear, sunny day, the chances are pretty good that you[...]
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
By now, very few people still deny the reality of climate change and its influence on weather events around the[...]
Defining Weathering, How It Relate To Erosion And The Different Types Of Weathering
Extended exposure to the weather and climate has significant effects on the physical environment. These effects are known as weathering.[...]
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 may have heard of the summer and winter solstice. They primarily refer to the longest and shortest day[...]
Defining A Lightning Bolt, How It Occurs, And The Effects Of Lightning On The Environment
Many readers would have experienced a lightning strike during a thunderstorm at some point during their lives. But what exactly[...]
Chinook Winds: What They Are And How They Form
Most of us are unfamiliar with Chinook (or Föehn) winds, but they are all just variations of a common meteorological[...]
Defining Temperature Inversion And How It Affects The Weather
In the atmosphere, temperatures generally drop as altitude increases above the Earth's surface, as many of us have experienced. But[...]
The Difference Between Evaporation And Condensation – And Their Impact On Weather Patterns And Conditions
Evaporation and condensation are two meteorological processes that are essential for the formation of different weather conditions. We examine the[...]
What Is An Urban Heat Island And How Does It Affect The Weather?
Local weather conditions can differ significantly from broader regional weather. However, an Urban Heat Island, commonly experienced in cities and[...]
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
Most readers will be familiar with carbon dioxide, mainly due to its negative association with Global Warming. We take a[...]
Defining The Galileo Thermometer And How It Works
We are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a thermometer, from the trusty old mercury thermometer to modern-day[...]
What Is A Storm Glass And How Does It Work To Forecast The Weather?
Weather enthusiasts or hobbyists may have heard of a storm glass, also known as weather glass or a weather globe.[...]
How To Predict The Weather Using Your Cloud Knowledge And Your Home Weather Station
Today, we have almost unlimited access to weather forecasts across different platforms. But by simply observing cloud formations, we can[...]
The Different Types Of Clouds And Their Meanings
One often briefly glances 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?
Many weather enthusiasts know the various means of collecting meteorological data but don't realize the importance of using radar technology.[...]
How To Read A Synoptic Weather Map
Most weather forecasts are accompanied by a map covered with different symbols, lines & colors. Meteorologists use these synoptic weather[...]
Understanding The Difference Between Weather And Climate
The weather & climate are among some of the most discussed topics worldwide and are often mistakenly used interchangeably. We[...]
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 a forecast goes wrong. We plan a day or event,[...]
What Is A Polar Vortex And Why Is It So Potentially Dangerous?
In recent years, a phenomenon called a Polar Vortex started getting a lot of public and media attention due to[...]
22 Degree Halos: Defining A Lunar Halo And How It Occurs
Occasionally, you may notice a hazy-looking ring around the Moon in the evening. This sometimes striking phenomenon is called a[...]
Extreme And Interesting Weather On Other Planets In Our Solar System
Earth's weather can get pretty extreme and downright weird at times, and we experienced some extraordinary meteorological events in recent[...]
Weather Thermometers: What They Are And How They Work
Most of us are familiar with thermometers and know they measure temperature. The weather thermometers used by meteorologists work on[...]
The 5 Layers Of The Atmosphere – Their Composition, Characteristics, And Importance Explained
While looking up at the sky on a cloud-free day, one will see what looks like a continuous piece of[...]
The Difference Between Ice, Snow, And Hail – And How Each One Is Formed
They may be similar in some ways, but are actually very different in the way they look and feel, and[...]
Weather Balloon Facts: What They Are And How They Work
The use of weather balloons is sometimes mentioned during weather forecasts and meteorological discussions. For many readers, though, it may[...]
The Effect Of Weather On Your Health – How Weather-Related Illnesses Affect Us
Most of us will remember a parent or teacher calling us inside while playing outside in the rain "before we[...]
What Are Gale Force Winds And How Are They Formed?
From time to time, strong, persistent winds may occur that make just staying on your feet a battle. We all[...]
What Is Dew Point, And How Does It Affect The Weather?
"Dew Point" is a term we often hear during weather forecasts or meteorological discussions. This post examines what precisely dew[...]
What Is The Coriolis Effect And How Does It Affect Our Weather?
Some readers will be vaguely familiar with the meteorological phenomenon, while others may never had heard of the Coriolis Effect.[...]
What Is A Tornado, How Is It Formed, And What Are Its Main Characteristics?
You may have never seen one person, or you could have experienced multiple events each year, but most readers will[...]
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 Can You Forecast The Weather?
It will be hard to argue that all readers will not welcome the ability to forecast the weather up to[...]
11 Weather Terms And Phenomena You Should Know And Understand
Over the last few decades, weather forecasts helped us understand our atmospheric conditions better. However, 11 meteorological terms are essential[...]
9 Ways To Predict The Weather Without A Weather Forecast Or Personal Weather Station
Most readers rely on weather forecasts to tell how the weather will behave. But by observing certain atmospheric conditions, nature,[...]
What Does A Weather Station Measure? And The Instruments Used To Measure Weather
Personal or home weather stations are becoming increasingly popular in homes and businesses. Most of them are capable of measuring[...]
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 will have a pretty good idea of what the weather stations used by large weather bureaus do and[...]
What Is The Difference Between Local And Regional Weather, And How Does It Affect You
It would be a fair assumption that every one of us has been more than annoyed with weather forecasters on[...]