This cloud is trapped in a canyon

Image

Image: Jason Mizerek, Fleet Science Center

San Diego's many canyons create some interesting weather-related phenomena. When morning fog rolls in, these low-lying clouds can get trapped in canyons by layers of warmer air. These clouds are sometimes referred to as valley fog.

Resources:

NASA's Earth Observatory: Valley Fog

National Geographic: Fog

PBS California: The Science of Fog

NGSS & Grade

MS-ESS2-5,ESS2.C: The Roles of Water in Earth's Surface Processes,ESS2.D: Weather and Climate

Type
Phenomena
Subject
Earth and Space Science

More Activities & Resources:

In eastern San Diego County, just north of Interstate 8 in the McCain Valley,

Phenomena
Hang gliders and paragliders can launch from and land on the cliffs of Torrey Pines.
Phenomena
Why do ants move in lines?
Phenomena

The Fleet Science Center invites you to connect to the power of science through FLEETtv!