Cloud Classifications
Clue: bluish-gray and streaky
Altostratus!
Clue: low cloud, white with dark patches and streaky
Stratocumulus!
Clue: very wispy clouds
Cirrus!
Clue: layered and dark clouds
Nimbostratus
Clue: uniform base, gray
Stratus!
Clue: white and gray and puffy!
Altocumulus!
Clue: layered with halo
Cirrostratus!
Clue: dark flat base, look like cauliflower!
Cumulus!
Clue: cover entire sky and are small puffs
Cirrocumulus
Clue: thunder and lightning!
Cumulonimbus!
Weather Maps Weather Maps are absolutely critical for forecasters. They contain information regarding fronts, highs and lows, isobars, and weather data for specific locations expressed through the use of symbols.
Frontal Precipitation
Isobars Air pressure is shown on a weather map using isobars - lines joining points of equal pressure at the earth's surface. You may think of isobars as being similar to contour lines on a topographic map but instead of elevation, air pressure is represented.
Isobars Recall that strong winds occur where there is a strong pressure differential. This can be seen on a weather map where the isobars are close together. Again similar to a topographic map where contour lines being close together indicates a steep slope / gradient, isobars being close together indicates a significant pressure gradient.
Image Analysis a) Describe the characteristics of a Continental Arctic air mass. Give data from the weather map to support your answer. b) What is the relative humidity at the station circled in red? Explain. c) What cloud types are at the station circled in green? d) What is the direction of the wind at the station circled in purple? e) What is the air pressure at the station circled in yellow?
Weather Map Activity Complete Handout
Weather Map Activity 104.74 kPa 1047.4 mb 2/8 5-13 km/h Stratocumulus Steady Light Drizzle 102.99 kPa 1029.9 F
Weather Map Activity A Northeast No Wind Risen 0.24kPA (2mb) in last 3 hours Continental Arctic – Dry and cool Maritime polar – wet and cool
Weather Map Activity Artic front will move through bringing drier conditions and colder temp The Rockies and the Selkirk mountains break the advance of the artic air mass; one part goes east into Alberta, the other pushes south into the Okanagan valley.