Clouds have always fascinated people. They are a natural wonder that can take on many different shapes and sizes, from the puffy white clouds of a sunny day to the ominous dark clouds that herald a storm. However, there is one type of cloud that is particularly rare and mysterious: the asperitas cloud.
The asperitas cloud is a relatively new cloud classification, having been officially recognized by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 2017. It is a cloud formation that looks like ocean waves or undulating hills, with a chaotic and turbulent appearance. It is also known as undulatus asperatus, which translates to "agitated waves" in Latin.
What Causes Asperitas Clouds?
The exact cause of asperitas clouds is not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that they are formed by a combination of atmospheric instability, moisture, and wind shear. Atmospheric instability occurs when there is a large temperature difference between the surface of the earth and the upper atmosphere, which can create turbulent air currents. Moisture is necessary to form the cloud itself, and wind shear helps to give it its distinct wavy appearance.
Asperitas clouds are typically associated with thunderstorms, but they can also form in the absence of precipitation. They are most commonly seen in the mid-latitudes, particularly in regions with a maritime climate. However, they may occur anywhere in the world.
Discovery and Recognition of Asperitas Clouds
The discovery of asperitas clouds is attributed to Gavin Pretor-Pinney, a British cloud enthusiast and founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society. In 2006, he received a photograph of a strange cloud formation from a member of the society who had taken the photo in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Pretor-Pinney was intrigued by the photo and began investigating the cloud formation. He discovered that it was a relatively rare and undocumented cloud type, and he named it "asperitas" in reference to its chaotic and turbulent appearance.
It took over a decade for asperitas clouds to be officially recognized as a cloud classification by the WMO. In 2015, the Cloud Appreciation Society submitted a formal proposal for the classification of asperitas clouds, backed up by scientific research and thousands of photographs and descriptions from society members. The proposal was approved in 2017, and asperitas clouds became the first new cloud classification to be added to the International Cloud Atlas in over half a century.
Why Are Asperitas Clouds So Fascinating?
Asperitas clouds are fascinating for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly rare. They are difficult to spot and are not commonly seen, even by experienced cloud watchers. This rarity makes them a special and exciting sight for those lucky enough to witness them.
Additionally, asperitas clouds are visually striking. Their undulating and chaotic appearance sets them apart from other cloud formations and can create a sense of awe and wonder in those who see them. They are often described as "otherworldly" or "alien," and their mysterious appearance adds to their allure.
Asperitas clouds also have cultural significance. They have been the subject of art, music, and poetry, and they have captured the imagination of people around the world. They represent a natural wonder that is both beautiful and mysterious, and they remind us of the power and majesty of nature.
The Future of Asperitas Clouds
Asperitas clouds are a relatively new discovery, and there is still much to learn about them. Scientists are continuing to study them in order to better understand their formation and behavior. The Cloud Appreciation Society is also encouraging people to report sightings of asperitas clouds in order to build a more complete picture of their distribution and frequency.
Asperitas clouds also have implications for climate change research. Their formation is thought to be related to atmospheric instability, which is becoming more common due to climate change. Therefore, asperitas clouds may become more frequent in the future as a result of climate change. Monitoring their occurrence and behavior could help researchers better understand the effects of climate change on the atmosphere.
In addition, asperitas clouds have practical implications for aviation. The chaotic and turbulent appearance of the clouds can indicate areas of severe turbulence, which can be dangerous for aircraft. Therefore, recognizing and understanding asperitas clouds can help pilots avoid areas of turbulence and fly more safely.
Conclusion
Asperitas clouds are a rare and fascinating cloud formation that have captured the imaginations of people around the world. Their chaotic and undulating appearance sets them apart from other cloud formations and creates a sense of awe and wonder in those who see them. They have cultural significance and practical implications for aviation and climate change research.
While much is still unknown about asperitas clouds, their recognition as a new cloud classification by the WMO is an important step in understanding and appreciating these mysterious and beautiful formations. As we continue to study and observe asperitas clouds, we can deepen our understanding of the atmosphere and the natural world.
Written by: Tasnim Ferdous
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