The marvels of technology allow us to witness nature's beauty and its intimidating power. Recently, a polar front swept across much of Florida, creating a stunning visual display over the Gulf and the Atlantic, captured by the satellites of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
On Tuesday, NOAA released footage from the GOES-19 satellite, also known as GOES East, showcasing long, parallel bands of clouds known as "cloud streets."
The agency explained that these formations occur when cold, dry air flows over warmer waters, resulting in rows of cumulus clouds aligned with the wind's direction. This phenomenon, referred to as "horizontal convective rolls," was observed on Sunday, February 1, between 13:36 and 19:46 UTC.
The imagery reveals a clear gap between the coast and the start of the clouds, which, according to NOAA, is due to the time it takes for the cold air to warm up and gather enough moisture to form clouds.
The arctic front responsible for this spectacle brought some of the coldest temperatures seen in years to the state. Thermometers dropped to 23°F (-5°C) in Winter Haven, 30°F (-1°C) in West Palm Beach, and 35°F (1°C) in Miami, temperatures that are rare even for the coldest winters in southern Florida.
The GOES-19 satellite, also called GOES East, observes a wide area encompassing North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Atlantic, providing high-resolution images that allow real-time monitoring of winter storms, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events.
Understanding the Impact of the Arctic Front on Florida
What are "cloud streets" and how do they form?
"Cloud streets" are long, parallel bands of cumulus clouds that form when cold, dry air moves over warmer waters, aligning with the wind's direction. This occurs due to the phenomenon known as "horizontal convective rolls."
How did the arctic front affect Florida's temperatures?
The arctic front brought unusually cold temperatures to Florida, with Winter Haven experiencing lows of 23°F, West Palm Beach 30°F, and Miami 35°F, which are uncommon even during the region's coldest winters.
What areas does the GOES-19 satellite cover?
The GOES-19 satellite, also known as GOES East, covers a wide area that includes North America, the Caribbean, Central America, and the Atlantic, allowing for real-time monitoring of extreme weather conditions.