Denver weather: These clouds make it look like it is raining when it is dry
DENVER (KDVR) — Have you ever seen what appears to be dark clouds raining down on Denver without feeling any moisture? A weather phenomenon can explain that.
Virga clouds make it look like it is raining even when it is dry on the ground.
What does '50% chance of rain' mean on a weather forecast?
Pinpoint Weather meteorologist Dave Fraser explains that the clouds are indeed raining, but the rain doesn't make it to the ground.
The phenomenon is common in the Denver metro area because of the semi-arid climate, creating drier air around the city, Fraser explained.
'The clouds are trying to rain, and it runs into drier air sitting over the Mile High City, and it just evaporates,' Fraser said.
This process can lead to gusty winds at times, so people on the ground will feel the wind but not the rain.
Fraser said virga clouds are a common sight for Coloradans. Look for clouds that may be darker with streaks toward the bottom, as if the cloud is raining. The streaks typically fade in the sky, showing where the falling rain is evaporating.
Virga clouds can be present during the day or night, or even shortly after it rains, as Fraser said the air remains dry even with recent precipitation.
With the severe weather season beginning and May being the wettest month of the year for Denver weather, these clouds may be a common sight in the coming months.
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