This tubular cloud formation in this image taken in Texas is called a “Morning Glory” cl

This tubular cloud formation in this image taken in Texas is called a “Morning Glory” cloud or a “Roll Cloud”. Despite being studied extensively, this cloud formation is not fully understood. However, it is determined that the main cause is probably due to the mesoscale circulations associated with sea breezes that develop over a peninsula or a gulf. In front of the cloud, there is strong vertical motion that transports air up through the cloud and creates the rolling appearance, while the air in the middle and rear of the cloud becomes turbulent and sinks. The formations can be up to 1000 kilometres long, 1 to 2 kilometres high, and can move at speeds up to 60 kilometres per hour. It is often accompanied by sudden wind gusts, intense low-level wind shear, a rapid increase in the vertical displacement of air parcels, and a sharp pressure jump at the surface, making these clouds problematic to air traffic. Jean A youtube video was taken of this cloud, it’s worth a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNOsjQ1ZpII Image courtesy of Todd Mask. -- source link

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