The Sierra Wave

Abstract or Long Description:

This article reviews the research project on the Sierra Wave Cloud formation that form in the high Sierra Nevada mountains in California. The article reviews the research methodology and conclusion. It also covers lenticular cloud formations and has some good figures and photos.

The Sierra Wave is a type of lenticular cloud, and depending on its height, is named cirrocumulus lenticularis, altocumulus lenticularis, or stratocumulus lenticularis. Clouds come to life from the condensation of the water content of the air. Lenticulars are formed by high, intense winds that lift off as they rapidly gain elevation; the lifting creates wave patterns of air where condensation takes place.

Resource URL:
http://www.yosemite.org/naturenotes/SierraWave.htm

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Bibliographical Authors:

Pratt, Beth

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Purpose:

Keywords:
Sierra Wave, clouds, mountain winds, lenticular clouds, cirrocumulus lenticularis, altocumulus lenticularis, stratocumulus lenticularis, sierra wave project, meteorological research

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Citation:
Pratt, Beth. "The Sierra Wave." Sierra Nature Notes, Volume 3, January 2003

Publisher:

Yosemite Association - Sierra Nature Notes

Publication Date:
December 31, 2002 10:00 PM

Currentness:
Publication

Progress:
Complete

Update Frequency:
None planned

Information Resource Type:
Websites

Information Resource Specific Type:
Articles

Media Type:
Web Page / Link

Access Limitations:
Public

Use Limitations:
No Restrictions

To Obtain:

Common Place Names:
Sierra Nevada Mountains, Owens Valley, Inyo Mountains

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Latitude:

Longitide:

GIS Location Polygon:

Merced River Watershed Portal

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