A spectacular cloud formation was recorded over Haridwar in Uttarakhand on 10th July 2023.
- These grey clouds that resemble a towering wall. The meteorological occurrence, known as an Arcus cloud (shelf clouds), drew a lot of attention on social media.
- These are low-level, long and thin cloud formations that are often associated with powerful storm systems such as thunderstorms.
- At times, they can be seen below cumulonimbus clouds.
- Every once in a while, they also occur with cumulus clouds.
- Shelf clouds can be scary, but they usually don’t cause tornadoes or extremely dangerous weather on their own.
- They usually form when cold air from a thunderstorm pushes warm, moist air upwards. As the warm air rises, it cools and condenses into clouds.
- Wind direction influences the new cloud formation. They do not occur if a storm is relatively weak, and are often seen at the location where the strongest lightning and thunder can occur. So, knowing how to identify them can give you time to seek cover and save lives.
