Shelf clouds are indicators of stormy weather, forming on the leading edge of thunderstorms as part of the gust front. They appear like a shelf and are technically known as Arques. As the gust front approaches, winds increase, the sky darkens, and lightning becomes more frequent, indicating a strong storm. The shelf cloud can be brightly illuminated by the sun, and small cloud fragments, known as scutt, may form. With the rise of smartphone cameras, more people capture these clouds, sometimes using panorama mode, which can distort their appearance.

What is the technical term for a shelf cloud?

• Stratus

• Cumulus

• Arques

• Nimbus

Which of the following is NOT a sign of a strong thunderstorm as the gust front approaches?

• Decreased humidity

• More lightning

• Darkening skies

• Increased winds

What happens to the base of the thunderstorm as the gust front passes?

• It disappears

• It shows extreme turbulence

• It rotates

• It becomes calm

What are the small cloud fragments that rise straight up and are sometimes mistaken for funnel clouds called?

• Cumulus

• Scutt

• Stratus

• Nimbus

How can the appearance of a shelf cloud be distorted in photographs?

• By using a macro lens

• By using a panorama mode

• By using a wide-angle lens

• By using a telephoto lens