Cloud Base Calculator

Cloud Base Calculator helps you calculate the expected height of cloud base using atmospheric temperature and dew point data.

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

LCL Height = T + (LCL Factor × (T - Td))

Where:
T = Surface Temperature
Td = Surface Dew Point
LCL Factor = 125 when T - Td ≤ 15°C
LCL Factor = 125 + 2(T - Td) when T - Td > 15°C

Cloud Base Height

-- Calculate --

meters above ground

LCL Factor

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Cloud Base Calculator Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Cloud Base Calculator and understand the atmospheric principles behind cloud formation

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the surface temperature in degrees Celsius (°C)
  2. Enter the surface dew point in degrees Celsius (°C)
  3. Enter the surface pressure in hectopascals (hPa) - default is 1013 hPa (standard sea level pressure)
  4. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the cloud base height

Understanding the Calculation

This calculator uses the Lifted Condensation Level (LCL) method to estimate cloud base height. The LCL is the theoretical height at which unsaturated air, when lifted, becomes saturated and condensation begins, forming clouds.

The calculation uses the following formula:
LCL Height = T + (LCL Factor × (T - Td))

Where T is the surface temperature and Td is the surface dew point. The LCL factor varies based on the temperature difference between the surface temperature and dew point:

  • When the temperature difference is 15°C or less, the LCL factor is approximately 125 meters per degree Celsius difference
  • When the temperature difference exceeds 15°C, the LCL factor increases by 2 meters for each additional degree Celsius difference

Practical Applications

This calculator is useful for pilots, meteorologists, and outdoor enthusiasts to understand when and where clouds might form based on current atmospheric conditions. The cloud base height information can help predict visibility conditions and potential turbulence in the lower atmosphere.

Important Notes

This is a simplified model and does not account for other atmospheric factors that can influence actual cloud base height, such as wind shear, atmospheric pressure variations with altitude, or the presence of atmospheric inversions. For more precise calculations, consult meteorological textbooks or advanced atmospheric science resources.