Changes in the Estimated Altitude of Stratus Clouds as Snow Approaches

Meteorologists predicted snow for the lower Treasure Valley on Sunday afternoon ( February 11th). So I started making measurements of ground and sky temperatures using my Seek Reveal thermal imager. Then assuming a dry adiabatic lapse rate of 5.4 degrees per thousand feet, I calculated the base height of the clouds. It was readily apparent their altitude was lowering as the day progressed. The data below seems to confirm that qualitative observation.

The snow didn't start until sometime after 9:15 PM MST and was finished by 4:30 AM MST the next morning. Therefore, there is no data during the time of snow at NearSys Station. The snow we did get was light and amounted to only 1/4 inches.

Ground and Air Temperatures

Estimated Altitude Corresponding to the Temperature Differences