Weather Misconceptions

Weather misconceptions are as plentiful as snow in Canada in January. Some misconceptions are so prevalent that even well-educated adults will often make weather mistakes. For instance, many believe you have to be hush hush around a layer of snow on a slope for fear of creating an avalanche. In reality, loud noises do not typically cause avalanches. The Utah Avalanche center indicates it would take a fairly large explosion to create an avalanche.

Another common weather misconception is the 'holding' capacity of air and humidity as explained in this lesson on evaporative cooling and humidity. In yet another example, ozone is NOT all good. While ozone high in the atmosphere protects the Earth from harmful UV rays, ozone near the ground is a primary component of smog.

Recently, Wikipedia even added a page on common misconceptions, but the weather misconceptions are strangely absent. That is why I created a place for you to share common weather misconceptions. You can also post some of your most difficult weather questions and curiosities. Start posting now...