A wind cloud refers to a cloud accompanied or followed by considerable wind.
In essence, the term highlights the relationship between cloud formations and windy conditions. The presence of certain types of clouds can be an indicator of impending or existing strong winds.
Characteristics of Wind Clouds
While "wind cloud" isn't a formal meteorological term, it describes a situation where clouds and wind are closely related. This connection can manifest in a few ways:
- Clouds indicating approaching wind: Certain cloud formations, like rapidly moving cirrus clouds or thickening altostratus clouds, can signal an approaching weather system and associated strong winds.
- Clouds formed by wind: Strong winds can also directly contribute to cloud formation. For example, lenticular clouds often form in mountainous regions due to wind patterns.
- Clouds moving with the wind: This is the most direct connection. The speed and direction of cloud movement often reflect the wind speed and direction at the cloud's altitude.
Examples of Wind-Related Cloud Phenomena
Here are some examples of how wind and clouds are related:
- Shelf Clouds: These dramatic, low-hanging clouds often appear at the leading edge of thunderstorms and are associated with strong gust fronts.
- Lenticular Clouds: As mentioned before, these lens-shaped clouds form when stable air flows over mountains and are a clear indication of strong winds aloft.
- Banner Clouds: These form on the lee side of mountain peaks, created by wind flowing over the summit.
