← Back Home

Cirrus Observations: October 23rd

Morning Sky Watch

On this crisp autumn morning, the sky displayed a magnificent array of cirrus clouds. The observations were made from a small hill overlooking the town, providing an unobstructed view of the upper atmosphere.

Date: October 23rd
Time of Observation: 08:15 AM Local Time
Cloud Type: Predominantly Cirrus Uncinus (mare's tails)
Cloud Coverage: Approximately 30% of the sky
Direction: South-Westerly flow
Appearance: Delicate, wispy strands, comma-shaped formations, and feathery streaks.

The clouds appeared highly fibrous and white, indicating a significant altitude. Sunlight passed through them easily, creating a soft, diffused light across the landscape. No halos were observed, suggesting the ice crystals were not optimally oriented for such a phenomenon at this moment.

Afternoon Shift

By afternoon, the cirrus formations had evolved. The earlier 'mare's tails' seemed to be stretching out, becoming more like Cirrus Fibratus.

Time of Observation: 02:30 PM Local Time
Cloud Type: Transitioning to Cirrus Fibratus, with residual Cirrus Uncinus.
Appearance: More linear, parallel streaks, some appearing detached and scattered. The texture remained very fine.
Wind Indicator: Upper-level winds appeared to be pushing the cloud elements in a more uniform direction.

The change suggests a shift in upper atmospheric conditions, possibly a more stable air mass moving in, or simply the natural evolution of the existing high-altitude moisture. The sun was still visible but noticeably less bright through the thickening cirrus.