Relationships between Cloud Type and Amount, Precipitation, and Surface Temperature in the Mackenzie River Valley-Beaufort Sea Area

Abstract

Hourly data from climatological stations in the Mackenzie River valley-Beaufort Sea area of northern Canada have been examined to determine the relationships between cloud type and amount, precipitation, and surface temperatures. During all seasons, stratocumulus is the dominant cloud type for both precipitating and non-precipitating hours. More stratocumulus cloud occurs when temperatures are warmer in the winter and colder in the summer. Similarly, precipitation occurs more frequently and the total amount is greater when temperatures are warmer in the winter and colder in the summer. Overcast skies are dominant for all seasons when precipitation is falling. During the winter, during nonprecipitating hours, clear skies are most frequent. During the summer, during nonprecipitating hours, some cloud is usually present. Surface temperatures are warmer in the winter with overcast skies and warmer in the summer with clear skies. An attempt has been made to quantify the above conclusions so that comparisons can be made with global climate models.