What was Luke Howard's contribution to cloud classification?

Luke Howard, a 19th-century London pharmacist, proposed a groundbreaking cloud classification system in 1803 that introduced the now-familiar terms like "cumulus" and "cirrus" to describe different cloud types.

How has Howard's cloud classification system been adopted globally?

Howard's system has been adopted by the World Meteorological Organization and is the foundation of the "International Cloud Atlas," which has been updated multiple times since its first edition in 1896.

How does understanding cloud types help with weather prediction?

By recognizing over 100 different cloud classifications, Howard's system has enabled weather forecasters to better understand atmospheric conditions and predict changes hours in advance, revolutionizing the field of meteorology.

Home / Science / Pioneering Meteorologist's Cloud Classification System Revolutionizes Weather Prediction

Pioneering Meteorologist's Cloud Classification System Revolutionizes Weather Prediction

17 Oct

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Summary

London pharmacist Luke Howard proposed a cloud classification system in 1803
His system uses Latin terms like "cumulus" and "cirrus" to describe cloud types
Howard's system has been adopted by the World Meteorological Organization

Pioneering Meteorologist's Cloud Classification System Revolutionizes Weather Prediction

Over 200 years ago, in 1803, a London pharmacist and amateur meteorologist named Luke Howard proposed a revolutionary cloud classification system that would forever change the way we understand and predict the weather. Speaking to the Askesian Society, Howard chose to use Latin terms for his system, as it was the universal language of science at the time, ensuring his work could be understood internationally.

Howard's system introduced the now-familiar cloud names we use today, such as "cumulus" (meaning "heap"), "stratus" ("layer"), and "cirrus" ("curl"). By combining these basic terms, he was able to describe all cloud varieties, from "cumulonimbus" (heap-rain cloud) to "altocumulus" (high heaps). This innovative approach has been adopted by the World Meteorological Organization and is now the foundation of the "International Cloud Atlas," which has been updated multiple times since its first edition in 1896.