American Meteorological Society Certification (AMS) Practice

Cold air sinking is associated with a phenomenon known as subsidence, which typically leads to high-pressure systems. These systems contribute to fair and clear weather conditions. As cold air descends, it compresses and warms, reducing the likelihood of cloud formation and precipitation. This is because warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to drier conditions and clearer skies.

In contrast, the other atmospheric conditions listed—cloudy weather, high humidity, and stormy conditions—are generally associated with rising air. When air rises, it cools, which can lead to condensation, cloud formation, and ultimately storminess. High humidity often occurs in conjunction with rising warm air that can hold more moisture, which is inconsistent with the characteristics of sinking cold air. Therefore, the atmospheric condition most often resulting from cold air sinking is fair and clear weather.