Quick Answer
Approach bad weather by observing changes in temperature, cloud formations, and animal behavior, such as birds flying low or squirrels scurrying for shelter.
Changes in Temperature
Changes in temperature can be an early indicator of approaching bad weather. A sudden drop in temperature, often referred to as a “cold snap,” can signal the approach of a low-pressure system. Typically, this drop in temperature occurs within a 30-minute to 1-hour period. Conversely, a rapid increase in temperature can indicate an approaching high-pressure system. In general, a temperature change of 3-5°F (1.6-2.8°C) within a short period should prompt you to pay closer attention to other signs.
Cloud Types and Formations
Cloud types and formations are crucial indicators of approaching bad weather. Cumulonimbus clouds, often referred to as thunderheads, are a sign of an approaching storm. These clouds typically form in towering vertical columns, with flat bases and rounded tops. An anvil-shaped cloud, where the top of the cloud turns into a flat anvil shape, is a clear indication of a severe thunderstorm.
Animal Behavior and Wind Shifts
Animals often exhibit changes in behavior before bad weather arrives. Squirrels, for example, scurry for shelter when a storm is approaching. Birds fly low to the ground or seek shelter in trees. A sudden change in the direction of the wind can also signal bad weather. A shift in wind direction from west to south or southwest often indicates an approaching low-pressure system.
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