Lifting Condensation Level (m AGL)

The LCL (Lifting Condensation Level) is the level at which a parcel becomes saturated. It is a reasonable estimate of cloud base height when parcels experience forced ascent.

The height difference between this parameter and the LFC is important when determining convection initiation. The smaller the difference between the LCL and the LFC, the more likely deep convection becomes. The LFC-LCL difference is similar to CIN (convective inhibition).