Atmosphere

Storm Duo Churns Over the Pacific
Image

Storm Duo Churns Over the Pacific

Hurricane Barbara and Tropical Storm Cosme lined up off the western coast of Mexico.

Published Jun 10, 2025

Image of the Day Atmosphere Water Severe Storms

Smoky Skies and Blooming Seas
Image

Smoky Skies and Blooming Seas

Smoke from wildland fires in Canada streamed over colorful seawater east of Greenland.

Published Jun 4, 2025

Image of the Day Atmosphere Fires

Cloud Fraction
Global Maps

Cloud Fraction

In addition to making rain and snow, clouds can have a warming or cooling influence depending on their altitude, type, and when they form. These maps show what fraction of an area was cloudy each month.

Feb 2000 — May 2025

Atmosphere

Aerosol Optical Depth
Global Maps

Aerosol Optical Depth

Airborne aerosols can cause or prevent cloud formation and harm human health. These maps depict aerosol concentrations in the air based on how the tiny particles reflect or absorb visible and infrared light.

Mar 2000 — May 2025

Atmosphere

Total Rainfall
Global Maps

Total Rainfall

These maps depict monthly total rainfall around the world. Rainfall is the primary source of fresh water for humans, plants, and animals. Rain also moves heat between the atmosphere, oceans, and land.

Jun 2000 — May 2025

Atmosphere