A tool used for determining the height of the lowest clouds above the ground, this application employs meteorological data such as dew point and temperature. For instance, inputting surface temperature and dew point allows the calculation of the lifted condensation level (LCL), often corresponding to the base height of cumulus clouds.
Knowledge of this altitude is crucial for aviation, particularly for pilots operating under visual flight rules (VFR), enabling safe navigation below cloud layers. Historically, estimates were derived through observation and manual calculations, but contemporary methods utilize digital tools for greater accuracy and speed. This information also assists meteorologists in weather forecasting and atmospheric analysis.
