what is non convective rain?
Non-convective rain refers to rainfall that occurs as a result of non-convective processes in the atmosphere. Convective processes, on the other hand, are associated with the rising and cooling of air parcels, leading to the formation of thunderstorms and showers.
To understand non-convective rain, it is helpful to have some knowledge of atmospheric processes. Generally, there are two main processes that can lead to rainfall: convective and non-convective.
Convective rainfall typically occurs in warm, unstable air masses where moist, warm air rises rapidly and cools as it ascends. This cooling causes water vapor in the air to condense into clouds, and if the conditions are right, these clouds can develop into thunderstorms or showers, resulting in convective rain.
Non-convective rainfall, on the other hand, is associated with non-convective processes such as large-scale weather systems and frontal activity. These processes tend to generate rain over wider areas and for longer durations compared to convective rainfall. Non-convective rain can occur in various weather patterns, such as when a warm front or a cold front moves through an area, or when an extratropical cyclone develops. These systems typically bring more steady and widespread rain compared to the localized and intense nature of convective rain.
In summary, non-convective rain refers to rainfall that is generated by large-scale weather systems and frontal activity, whereas convective rain is associated with the development of thunderstorms and showers due to the rising and cooling of air parcels.