Sivukaarista

Sivukaarista is a Finnish term that translates to "side arc" or "lateral arc." It most commonly refers to a specific type of cloud formation, a supplementary cloud that appears to be attached to the side of a larger cumulonimbus or cumulus cloud. These formations are indicative of specific atmospheric conditions within the parent cloud.

Sivukaarista clouds are typically observed during the development or mature stage of a cumulonimbus cloud. They often manifest as a curved, arc-like shelf extending horizontally from the main cloud mass. The formation is often associated with the inflow of moist air into the storm. The appearance can vary, sometimes being thin and wispy, at other times more substantial and dense.

The presence of sivukaarista is not a standalone indicator of severe weather, but it is a feature that meteorologists note when analyzing cloud structures. It suggests localized areas of strong updrafts and downdrafts within or around the main storm system. Observing these supplementary clouds can help in understanding the dynamics and potential intensity of a developing thunderstorm. While not a distinct cloud genus or species, it is a recognized feature in cloud observation and classification within meteorological contexts.