Cloud cover refers to the fraction of the sky that is covered by clouds at any given time. It is usually expressed as a percentage, with 0% indicating clear, blue skies and 100% indicating completely overcast conditions.
Cloud cover is influenced by several factors, including:
Cloud cover is typically measured using instruments such as ceilometers, satellites, and ground-based sky cameras. Additionally, cloud cover can be visually estimated by trained observers using standardized methods.
Cloud cover plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature and influencing weather patterns. It affects the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface and can contribute to the formation of precipitation.
To study cloud cover effectively, consider the following steps: