You can tell which way a thunderstorm is moving by observing the shape of its anvil cloud.
Here's how to determine the direction a thunderstorm is heading, based on the reference material provided:
Observing the Anvil Cloud
One of the most reliable ways to determine the direction a thunderstorm is moving is by observing its "anvil" cloud. The "anvil" is the flat, spreading top of a mature thunderstorm cloud.
- Anvil Shape: As the cloud top spreads out, it forms a distinctive anvil shape.
- Wind Direction: The winds at high altitudes push and stretch the anvil cloud.
- Direction of Movement: The direction in which the anvil cloud is stretched or pushed indicates the direction the thunderstorm is heading. The shape isn't symmetrical however and the winds at this high level push and stretch the cloud more in the direction that the winds are blowing. This is the direction that the storm cloud is heading.
In summary, observe the direction in which the anvil cloud is being pushed or stretched by high-altitude winds to determine the direction of the storm's movement.
