A low, horizontal, wedge-shaped cloud formation attached to the leading edge of an advancing thunderstorm's gust front, formed as the storm's cool outflow undercuts and lifts the warm, humid air ahead of it. Its smooth, shelf-like underside and often turbulent, tiered appearance make it one of the most visually dramatic storm features, and its arrival typically signals an abrupt shift to strong, gusty wind within minutes.
Facts
Identification
Distinguishing AppearanceRising air motion often visible in the leading part; the underside often turbulent and wind-torn. 1 Sources
1. Arcus cloud, Wikipedia
Shelf cloudQuote, Shelf cloud
Rising air motion can often be seen in the leading (outer) part of the shelf cloud, while the underside can often appear as turbulent and wind-torn.
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