Spinal Wave Cloud

June 06, 2006

Img2006-04-02_0011 copy

Provided by: Manon Boily
Summary authors & editors: Jim Foster; Manon Boily

The above photo showing a series of wedge shaped wave clouds was taken over Saint-Hubert, Quebec, Canada on April 2, 2006. I couldn't help but notice this spine-like cloud as I looked to the west around 7:00 p.m. (local time). Linear cloud formations such as these are often observed oriented parallel to, and embedded within, the axis of the jet stream. Note, the "wedges" increase in size but become less conspicuous from west to east (top to bottom) -- a common feature of wave cloud phenomenon.

Related Links: