If you thought you saw a UFO hovering over Queensland, you’re not alone. Residents in the western part of Brisbane woke up to a spectacular sight on Thursday morning – a strange, oddly-shaped cloud that looked like an alien spaceship.
But, as it turns out, this “other-worldly” phenomenon is actually a sign of the wild weather that’s been sweeping across the state.
What are Shelf Clouds?
The unusual cloud formation, known as shelf clouds or arcus clouds, was captured by locals in various parts of the region, including Gowrie Junction, Yalangur, and Glencoe.
These clouds are characterized by their distinctive layered shape, which can sometimes resemble a UFO or a spaceship. But what do they mean, and why are they important?
According to Daniel Hayes from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), shelf clouds are a sign that a storm is approaching. “They can sometimes look quite weird in shape, and definitely look a bit like a UFO or a spaceship,” he said.
While the clouds themselves are not necessarily a cause for concern, they can indicate that a strong gust front is approaching, which can bring damaging winds.
How are Shelf Clouds Formed?
So, how are these bizarre cloud formations created? According to Mr. Hayes, shelf clouds are triggered when cool air mixes with warm, moist air near the ground and pushes upward.
This process can occur when a storm is approaching, and the resulting cloud formation can be a sign of the storm’s strength.
“The bigger the storm, the more potential mixing there is, and the more potential strength to those downdrafts,” Mr. Hayes explained.
Why are Shelf Clouds Important?
While shelf clouds may look like something out of a science fiction movie, they’re actually an important indicator of the weather.
By recognizing these clouds, residents can check their weather apps for any active warnings and prepare for potential storms.
As Mr. Hayes noted, “You’ll often get that cool breeze come through ahead of a big thunderstorm during these summer periods. That’s cold air coming down, out of the storm itself, moving ahead of [it].”
In Photos: Shelf Clouds over Queensland
Locals captured some stunning photos of the shelf clouds, which were shared on social media. From the pinky-orange layered clouds to the purple-tinged clouds, the images show the unique shape and beauty of these cloud formations.
Whether you’re a weather enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, these photos are definitely worth checking out.
In conclusion, the next time you see a strange, UFO-like cloud in the sky, don’t panic – it might just be a shelf cloud indicating an approaching storm.
By understanding what these clouds mean and how they’re formed, you can stay ahead of the weather and appreciate the beauty of these natural phenomena.