Anvil

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-000155",
  "term": "Anvil",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definitions": [
    "The flattened, ice-crystal-dominated top of a mature cumulonimbus cloud, which spreads out horizontally when the rising air current reaches the stable tropopause. This distinctive shape resembles a blacksmith's anvil and indicates a powerful thunderstorm. The anvil can extend many kilometers downwind from the main storm cell.",
    "The flat, spreading top of a cumulonimbus cloud, often shaped like an anvil. Thunderstorm anvils may spread hundreds of miles downwind from the thunderstorm itself, and sometimes may spread upwind."
  ],
  "see_also": [
    "anvil cloud"
  ],
  "references": [
    "NWS Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/anvil/"
}