How Fast Is a Cloud?
Clouds don't have a single speed; their movement depends on wind speed and altitude.
The speed of a cloud is determined primarily by the wind's speed at its altitude. Generally, wind speeds increase with altitude. Therefore, a cloud at a higher altitude will typically move faster than a cloud at a lower altitude.
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Average Speed: Many sources cite an average cloud speed of 30 to 40 miles per hour (mph). This is a useful generalization, but it's crucial to remember this is an average.
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High-Altitude Speeds: At higher altitudes, within jet streams, cloud speeds can reach significantly higher speeds, potentially exceeding 100 mph and even reaching up to 300 km/h (approximately 186 mph).
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Low-Altitude Speeds: Conversely, clouds at lower altitudes will move more slowly, often at speeds considerably less than the average.
In summary, while a general average can be given, the actual speed of a cloud is highly variable and depends on atmospheric conditions.
