Should you happen upon an anvil perched atop a cloud, you can be certain it signifies maturity. However, the cloud’s advanced age does not necessarily equate to gentle behavior. An anvil, referred to as an anvil top or cumulonimbus incus (a tongue-twister, indeed), serves as a distinct indication of a powerful thunderstorm. Easily identifiable by its protrusion from the side of the cloud, the anvil boasts a solid, well-defined appearance—far from wispy. As a cloud matures and expands vertically, there comes a juncture where the air can no longer ascend, prompting the cloud to spread horizontally downwind. Anvil tops are often linked to destructive winds, hail, and even tornadoes. They unequivocally signal a storm of considerable strength or severity. If ever you spy one, it is imperative to stay informed about weather alerts and prioritize your safety. Jennifer Gray, a veteran weather and climate journalist for weather.com, has been diligently reporting on some of the most noteworthy weather and climate events worldwide over the past twenty years.
