If You See These Clouds in Utah Get Inside Quick
Clouds That Predict Wild Weather
Severe weather in the desert can flood the roads and canyons. High winds can topple trees and overturn semi-trailers. Being aware of the most dangerous clouds can warn you of danger. Here are some to look out for.
Shelf Clouds
When a storm is high up, these clouds can be seen underneath the leading edge and look like a shelf hanging down. This is air being pushed out from the storm clouds above. Expect high winds and even hail to follow.
Wall Clouds
These can look like the shelf clouds, but they are different. These clouds are sucking warm air into the storm. As you can imagine, anything that pulls the air like that is going to be big.
Mammatus Clouds
They look like bubbles and indicate the beginning of a storm and possibly hail. If you are on the lake, turn and head for the shore.
Pyrocumulus Clouds
When the wilderness is dry and wildfires spring up, these clouds don't help. They are a result of the fire and smoke and can create a thunderstorm. These often have unpredictable wind patterns. Get out of the area.
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Now you know what clouds to look for when you are out hiking or boating. It is also good to keep an eye out for clouds that form quickly. These can be the bright fluffy type, but if they form in minutes, it indicates some changing pressure and rising wind speeds.
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Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF