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Wispy Cirrus Clouds Forecast Incoming Weather Fronts
16 Aug
Summary
- Cirrus clouds composed of ice crystals signal approaching warm fronts
- Curly, wispy "mare's tail" clouds precede fronts by 1-2 days
- Cirrus clouds stretch and curl due to high-altitude wind patterns
According to the article, certain types of high-altitude clouds can provide valuable clues about upcoming weather patterns. Specifically, cirrus clouds composed of ice crystals often indicate an approaching warm front.
These cirrus clouds, sometimes referred to as "mare's tails" due to their wispy, curling appearance, typically appear 1-2 days before a warm front moves into an area. The unique shape of the clouds is caused by high-altitude wind patterns interacting with the ice crystals at around 25,000-30,000 feet.
As the warm front gets closer, the cirrus clouds become slightly thicker. But the thin, streaky clouds observed in the picture sent by the reader Brent suggest the front is still some distance away. These "cirrus uncinus" clouds, with their hook-like curls, are a clear sign that a change in the weather is on the horizon.
While the cirrus clouds themselves do not bring precipitation, they are a reliable harbinger of an incoming warm front and the weather changes it will bring. Observing these high-altitude cloud formations can give people valuable advance notice to prepare for the shifting conditions.
