Encyclopedia of Climate and Weather

Modern weather study goes far beyond traditional meteorology. In addition to phenomena such as rain, drought, and hurricanes, it now includes a wide range of natural and social factors that have contributed to or are affected by changes in the Earth's climate and weather systems. The Encyclopedia of Climate and Weather is designed to reflect this diversity. For those who would like to understand exactly what a tornado is and how it is formed, or the differences between cumulus and cirrus clouds, the encylcopedia offers accessible descriptions and illustrations of all of the essentials of meteorology. Cyclones, lightning, fog, cold fronts, dew point, and volcanoes - every weather phenomenon is covered. Over 400 photographs, charts, and illustrations help to clarify and concepts and processes described, giving visual immediacy to sometimes complex topics. Authoritative and engagingly written, it is an important reference on a subject that affects all inhabitants of planet Earth.