Scud Cloud Scare: No Tornado near Truist Park, Just Odd Weather
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Cobb County,GA – A peculiar cloud formation caused a stir outside Truist Park during Tuesday’s Los Angeles Angels game,prompting numerous inquiries about a possible tornado. Despite social media buzz and concerned emails to the FOX 5 Storm Team,experts have confirmed that the cloud was not a tornado,but rather a scud cloud.
What is a Scud Cloud?
According to FOX 5 Storm Team Chief Meteorologist David Chandley, the cloud in question was identified as a scud cloud. The national Weather service notes that scud clouds are frequently mistaken for tornadoes. These low, ragged cloud fragments often appear near a storm’s updraft region but lack the organized and persistent rotation characteristic of tornadoes.
A scud cloud outside truist Park on July 1, 2025.Picture courtesy of Melody Nolan.
Did You Know? Scud clouds are also known as fractus clouds and can form when moist, stable air is lifted over a cooler surface.
Formation and characteristics
Chandley described scud clouds as “scary looking clouds” that develop when cooler air is drawn to the surface by a thunderstorm.This influx of cooler air leads to condensation, resulting in the formation of these clouds. While they may appear ominous, Chandley assured that they are “harmless, but still odd-looking.”
The National Severe Storms laboratory further explains that scud clouds are often associated wiht severe weather, but their presence alone does not indicate a tornado. They are simply a visual indicator of atmospheric instability and moisture.
Scud Cloud vs. Tornado: Key Differences
Distinguishing between a scud cloud and a tornado can be challenging, but there are key differences to look for:
- Rotation: Tornadoes exhibit organized and persistent rotation, while scud clouds lack this characteristic.
- Connection to Cloud Base: Tornadoes are typically connected to a rotating cloud base (mesocyclone), whereas scud clouds are frequently enough detached and ragged.
- Debris cloud: Tornadoes often have a visible debris cloud at ground level, which is absent in scud clouds.
Pro Tip: If you spot a suspicious cloud formation, monitor its behavior closely. Look for signs of rotation and a connection to a cloud base. If in doubt, seek shelter and monitor local weather reports.
Understanding Cloud Formations
Cloud formations are a fascinating aspect of meteorology, reflecting various atmospheric conditions. Understanding diffrent cloud types can definitely help individuals better interpret weather patterns and potential hazards. For example,cumulonimbus clouds are associated with thunderstorms,while cirrus clouds indicate stable,high-altitude conditions.
| Cloud Type | Altitude | Characteristics | Associated Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cumulonimbus | Low to High | Dense,towering,thunderstorm clouds | Heavy rain,thunderstorms,hail |
| Cirrus | High | Thin,wispy clouds | Fair weather |
| Scud | Low | Low,ragged cloud fragments | Frequently enough near thunderstorms,but not a tornado |
Have you ever mistaken a scud cloud for a tornado? What other weather phenomena have you found confusing?
Evergreen Insights: Understanding Atmospheric Instability
Atmospheric instability is a key factor in the formation of various weather phenomena,including thunderstorms and scud clouds. It refers to the tendency of air parcels to accelerate vertically when displaced, leading to the progress of strong updrafts and downdrafts. Factors contributing to atmospheric instability include temperature gradients, moisture content, and lifting mechanisms such as fronts and terrain.
The presence of a capping inversion, a layer of warm air aloft, can initially suppress thunderstorm development. However, if the inversion is overcome, explosive thunderstorm growth can occur. Meteorologists use various tools,such as sounding data and weather models,to assess atmospheric stability and predict the likelihood of severe weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scud Clouds
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