Pretty, isn't it? Storm clouds They are a marvel. These atmospheric formations can reach up to 20 km high, resulting in a stunning view from any location. However, They can rarely be observed in all their splendor from the ground. This is precisely what happened in the Neuquén Province, in Argentina, last day November 30th.
On that date, an incredible event took place cumulonimbus, which are clouds that portend storms and rain, serving as inspiration for professional and amateur photographers. While the formation of these clouds normally brings problems, in this case, Neuquén residents were able to observe the sky, amazed by the beauty of the spectacular storm cloud.
The community took photographs at different stages and from different environments: from the buildings, from the Río Negro and more. Some, like Andrés Killy, even created timelapses that they shared through Facebook, showing the majesty of the phenomenon. You can see their work doing click here.
How are Cumulonimbus formed?
The cumulonimbus They are clouds of great vertical development that form when a column of warm, humid air rises in a rotating spiral. The base of these clouds is less than 2 km high, while their top can reach between 15 to 20 kmThese clouds are responsible for producing intense rain and thunderstorms, especially when they reach their anvil shape, which is characteristic of their full development. If you're interested in learning more about the characteristics of thunderstorms, check out our article on the green storms.
They can form in isolation or in groups, or along a cold frontThe severity of the conditions that generate these clouds can vary. For example, in urban areas, excessive rainfall can result in flooding and landslides. Under optimal conditions, these clouds can also produce hailstorms and tornadoes. For a better understanding of the phenomenon, related cases can be observed, such as summer storms, which also generate favorable conditions for this type of clouds.
The cumulonimbus They are clouds of great vertical development that form when a column of warm, humid air rises in a rotating spiral. The base of these clouds is less than 2 km high, while their top can reach between 15 to 20 kmThese clouds are responsible for producing intense rain and thunderstorms, especially when they reach their anvil shape, which is characteristic of their full development.
In addition, the phenomenon of electric storms It is closely related to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds. During these storms, electrical discharges are common, which can be dangerous to people and structures.
The implications of Cumulonimbus clouds are varied and can generate adverse weather conditions. Did you know that cumulonimbus Are responsible for some of the most intense weather events in Argentina? To learn more about the effects of storms in other regions, you can check out the article on the intense storms in Malaga.
The Implications of Cumulonimbus Clouds
It is usually associated with the cumulonimbus with a series of adverse effects. In several regions of Argentina, the intense rainfall caused by these clouds has resulted in flooded streets, evacuations of residential areas, and the danger of landslides. However, despite its dangers, the sight of a Cumulonimbus cloud in formation is an impressive spectacle that attracts the attention of meteorologists and photographers alike.
During heat waves, cumulonimbus clouds tend to form more frequently due to the combination of high humidity and heat. The warm air tends to rise rapidly into the atmosphere, where it cools and turns into vapor, which then condenses. This process is essential for the development of strong thunderstorms, which tend to occur in the afternoons or evenings, giving rise to what is known as “heat storms”An interesting aspect of this phenomenon is that one can delve deeper into the vertical dimension and cloud levels.
When these clouds form, they can cause dramatic changes in the weather, generating massive storms that can be detrimental to communities. For example, National Metereological Service (SMN) has issued storm warnings that include flooding and hail damage in various locations in Buenos Aires and other regions of Argentina.
Conditions for the formation of Cumulonimbus
The formation of Cumulonimbus clouds is conditioned by several factors, among which the following stand out:
- High temperatures: During the summer, high temperatures promote the warming of the air near the Earth's surface.
- Atmospheric humidity: An increase in humidity, whether due to evaporation from bodies of water or specific meteorological conditions, is crucial for the formation of these clouds.
- Atmospheric instability: The presence of instability, which allows warm air to rise rapidly, is essential for the development of Cumulonimbus.
When these conditions are met, the formation of cumulonimbus clouds is more likely. This phenomenon is common in summer, but it can also occur in autumn and spring when conditions are suitable. A clear example of this has been observed in past events where these clouds have caused significant storms in the Río de la Plata region and on the Atlantic coast of Buenos Aires. Furthermore, an increase in the intensity of these storms is associated with their impact on the global climate, as explored in The greenhouse effect.
Impact of Cumulonimbus Clouds in Buenos Aires
In Buenos Aires, cumulonimbus clouds recently made the news due to their impact on the city's weather, where torrential rains were reported to have caused havoc. A report by the SMN During recent events, he indicated that these clouds were accompanied by a notable drop in temperature and increased wind speed. Cumulonimbus storms have been responsible for hail and strong gusts that have affected local infrastructure.
The phenomenon also generated attention due to the formation of a low pressure center which allowed weather conditions to deteriorate rapidly. Such an event has served as a reminder of the power these clouds can have and their ability to cause sudden weather changes in densely populated areas by producing .
The impact was not limited to Buenos Aires; nearby towns were also affected, with reports of flooding and significant property damage. The community has been warned about the importance of monitoring forecasts and being prepared to respond to extreme weather events associated with Cumulonimbus. It is also essential to be aware of the hail measurements that can result from these formations.
Precautionary and Safety Measures
Due to the dangers associated with cumulonimbus storms, it is crucial that the public be informed and prepared for their possible occurrence. Some recommendations include:
- Safe Haven: Seek shelter indoors and away from windows during a storm.
- Do not drive in flooded areas: Avoiding driving or walking through flooded areas can prevent accidents and personal injury.
- Protect outdoor objects: Secure objects that can be carried away by the wind.
- Attention to weather alerts: Stay informed about the weather and possible alerts through reliable sources.
Additionally, it's recommended to have emergency backpacks ready with essential items such as flashlights, a radio, identification, and cell phones. Preparedness is key to mitigating the risks associated with extreme weather events.
