Cold Front Approaches as Meteorologist Cheng Shares Cloud Street Image

As the winter season intensifies, meteorologist Cheng Ming-tian has highlighted a significant weather phenomenon—a cloud street—via a satellite image shared on his social media. Today marks a critical point in the season, known as the “Great Cold,” coinciding with a strong cold air mass descending from the continent.

Cold Weather Alerts Issued

The Central Weather Bureau (CWB) has issued low-temperature warnings for seven cities, including New Taipei, Keelung, Taipei, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu County. These areas are under orange alerts, indicating prolonged temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius or lower.

Additionally, Miaoli County and Kinmen County have yellow alerts, warning of potential temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius.

Understanding the Cloud Street Phenomenon

Cheng’s social media post emphasizes the presence of a cloud street, which is typically formed when cold air passes over warmer ocean waters. This distinct cloud formation is characterized by a series of small cumulus clouds arranged in linear patterns.

Currently, the clarity of the cloud street phenomenon is most evident in the Sea of Japan. Cheng noted that although cloud streets are also present in the Yellow Sea, some are obscured by higher clouds.

The Science Behind Cloud Streets

The CWB explains that cloud streets are unique to colder winter months. While cold air masses usually result in clear skies, the interaction with warmer ocean waters creates a striking visual effect.

Key conditions for the formation of cloud streets include:

• Large cold air mass with strong winds.
• Significant temperature differences between the cold air and the warmer sea surface.
• Weak convection currents producing cumulus clouds.

As the cold air descends and warm air rises, aligned cloud formations become visible. The stronger the wind, the more pronounced and elongated these formations appear, resembling footprints across the ocean surface. Observing the arrangement of these clouds can offer insights into the prevailing wind direction and its intensity.

In summary, as a cold front approaches, the cloud street serves as a visual reminder of the winter’s grip, prompting discussions among social media users about the impending temperature drop.