Weather: Some Say It’s All About Clouds

When scientists and meteorologists discuss the very general topic if weather, the conversation usually revolves around various types of clouds. In fact, there are two basic categories of clouds, the cumuliform and the stratiform. Within these two general types, scientists and weather observers distinguish a number of sub-types, depending on weather conditions and appearance.

Clouds indicate that there are rising masses of air and water vapor is condensing. With this in mind, weather experts and storm watchers are able to figure out, with some accuracy, what weather systems may occur. However, while non-professionals have for centuries enjoyed the many, many shapes that occur when clouds form, the use of cloud classification was developed in relatively recent times.

According to most historical accounts, an Englishman named Luke Howard developed a cloud classifying plan and presented it to a scientific society in 1803. The names he employed were based on the common practice of using the Latin language. This method allowed for combinations of cloud names, thus creating some of the sub-types.

The two basic types, as mentioned earlier, are cumuliform and stratiform. The first has its roots in the word cumulus, literally “heap.” This is meant to indicate the puffy nature of such clouds, which are formed by convection and the lifting process/weather changes that involve vapor and particles.

The altitude at which clouds form can also help determine what type they are. For example, those clouds above 16,500 feet above sea level are generally known as cirrus clouds. This means that the “cirro” is sometimes added to give specific names to basic cloud types.

The altitude at which clouds form can also help determine what type they are. For example, those clouds above 16,500 feet above sea level are generally known as cirrus clouds. This means that the “cirro” is sometimes added to give specific names to basic cloud types. There is another sub-type of cloud, generally forming at 6,500 feet and up to the level of cirrus clouds. This type of cloud can sometimes be known as an “alto” cloud. Those clouds forming at lower levels are usually classified only as one of two basic types - stratus and cumulus.

However, there are cumulonimbus clouds that many consider a class of its own because this type of cloud can be found at nearly all altitudes. The term “nimbus” is meant to indicate that the cloud holds rain. Of course, the practice of cloud classification is far from an perfect science. Yet, most experts know that the flexibility of the system may fit the infinite variations in cloud appearance.

Nearly everyone is aware that clouds form with rising air that cools until water vapor is at a saturation point. Droplets that grow large enough can be drawn to the earth by gravity, and we have what is commonly known as precipitation. There are several common types of precipitation - rain, sleet and snow among the different types. Clouds are the birthplace of the precipitation experienced on the ground.

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San Diego is touted as a tremendous vacation destination. As a local, I can tell you it is. From family events to a vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone and you’ll never get bored.

Viva la Mexico! San Diego sits on the border with Tijuana just to the south. TJ, as it is known, is a lot of fun. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of drug crime lately, so make sure to check with locals on that status before heading down.

Looking for something very different? How about the strangest amusement park you’ve probably ever seen. Yep, I am talking about Legoland in Carlsbad. As the name suggests, the park is primarily made out of Legos. A kid’s delight.

Just trolley it baby! San Diego has installed a trolley system that runs through parts of the county. Throw away your schedule of things to see. Just jump on the trolley, get off when you like and do some exploring. We’re friendly people.

Bro, I wanna surf. If this sounds like a good statement to you, I have great news. San Diego is stuffed with surf schools. You can look them up online or ask around your area. There’s one just about every three blocks.

If an adult beverage in a more regal spot is your idea of a good time, the Hyatt in downtown San Diego is the place to go. Well, the top floor at least. It is a classy bar with large windows overlooking all of San Diego.

Looking to do a bit of dancing. From the Tango to line dancing to whatever is hot, one needs look no farther than downtown San Diego. Head over to E street and prepare to burn off dinner with some seriously fun gyrating.

Looking for something really different? How about bull fighting? They don’t allow it in San Diego, but you can hop across the border and catch it in Tijuana. The bull ring is located on the coast to the west of the city.

From golfing to hang gliding to just about anything you can think of, San Diego has it. Drive, fly, take a train or walk to San Diego and you will be happy you did at the end of the trip. In fact, many people never actually go home.

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San Diego is touted as a tremendous vacation destination. As a local, I can tell you it is. From family events to a vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone and you’ll never get bored.

The World Famous San Diego Zoo can make the garish claim for a good reason. It is pretty amazing. Snuggled five minutes from downtown San Diego in the middle of Balboa Park, the zoo is a collection of beautiful space and animals.

Looking for something very different? How about the strangest amusement park you’ve probably ever seen. Yep, I am talking about Legoland in Carlsbad. As the name suggests, the park is primarily made out of Legos. A kid’s delight.

Like to play the slots? A good card game sound fun? Well, gambling is illegal in San Diego County. However, Indian reservations have no such restrictions and they surround San Diego. Sycuan’s is a popular one.

Bro, I wanna surf. If this sounds like a good statement to you, I have great news. San Diego is stuffed with surf schools. You can look them up online or ask around your area. There’s one just about every three blocks.

If an adult beverage in a more regal spot is your idea of a good time, the Hyatt in downtown San Diego is the place to go. Well, the top floor at least. It is a classy bar with large windows overlooking all of San Diego.

The Del Mar Fairgrounds are a summer delight for visitors. From June through early July, you can attend the fair, eat too much and takes rides. From July through early September, the horses run at the race track within the fairgrounds.

Looking for something really different? How about bull fighting? They don’t allow it in San Diego, but you can hop across the border and catch it in Tijuana. The bull ring is located on the coast to the west of the city.

When it comes to having fun in San Diego, the list of things you can do is practically endless. It is pretty hard to have a bad time, so just get out there and go. We are all friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for some help or advice if you need it.

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I’m fortunate enough to have lived in San Diego much of my life. I’ve traveled over seas many times, but always come back. Why? Because there is so much to do. If you are going to be visiting, here are some ideas to keep you busy and happy.

Viva la Mexico! San Diego sits on the border with Tijuana just to the south. TJ, as it is known, is a lot of fun. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of drug crime lately, so make sure to check with locals on that status before heading down.

When it comes to partying, San Diego has a vast collection of locations that cater to everyone. One of the best is Lahaina’s in Pacific Beach. Picture an outdoors deck facing the boardwalk and beach with plenty of beer and you have the right idea.

San Diego has the Padres. They’re a professional baseball team. They’re not very good, but it really doesn’t matter. San Diego has a new baseball stadium that is amazing. Petco Park. You can even bring a dog while catching a game.

Balboa Park is an excellent area for spending a day. You can just kick back and people watch or you can take in the various museums in the park. They range from historical to space museums. If all else fails, the zoo is also there.

Given its location, you probably will not find it surprising San Diego is known for its Mexican food. Everyone has their favorite place, but some of the best are in Eden Gardens within Solana Beach. Authentic and inexpensive. Give it a try.

San Diego and beaches are two terms that go together. There are lots of little beaches. If you want a beach with a bit of a hippie vibe, Ocean Beach is the place. From head shops to beer bars, OB has a little something for everyone.

Ever wondered what a yard of beer tastes like? Well, now you can find out. Head over to O’Hungry in Old Town. They serve beer by the yard. It comes in a long glass with a bulb on the end. At least, I faintly remember that being the case. Don’t Drive!

When it comes to having fun in San Diego, the list of things you can do is practically endless. It is pretty hard to have a bad time, so just get out there and go. We are all friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for some help or advice if you need it.

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