Weather Dictionary / Glossary of Terms

Barber Pole


   Weather TermDescription / Definition
   Barber Pole [Slang], a thunderstorm updraft with a visual appearance including cloud striations that are curved in a manner similar to the stripes of a barber pole. The structure typically is most pronounced on the leading edge of the updraft, while drier air from the rear flank downdraft often erodes the clouds on the trailing side of the updraft.


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Data courtesy of NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration