Cloud Base

Cloud base estimator

The gap between surface temperature and dewpoint sets how far air must rise to condense. This estimates the base of fair-weather convective cloud.

A rule-of-thumb estimate for cumuliform cloud (about 400 ft per °C of spread). Real cloud bases vary — use the METAR, TAF and your own eyes.

Surface conditions

Temperature and dewpoint as reported in the METAR.

Surface temperature

°C

Dewpoint

°C

Field elevation

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Estimated cloud base

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above ground level

Cloud base (MSL)

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Temp / dewpoint spread

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