Why Clouds Matter
Clouds are the atmosphere's mood ring. Their shape, height, and colour reveal what the air is doing — and what weather is coming next.
High Clouds (Above 6,000m)
| Cloud | Appearance | Weather Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Cirrus | Thin wispy streaks | Fair weather now; front may be approaching |
| Cirrostratus | Thin sheet, halo around sun/moon | Rain likely within 12-24 hours |
| Cirrocumulus | Small rippled patches | Unsettled weather on the way |
Mid-Level Clouds (2,000-6,000m)
| Cloud | Appearance | Weather Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Altostratus | Grey sheet, sun dimly visible | Rain approaching within hours |
| Altocumulus | Grey/white puffs in rows | Fair weather; thunderstorms possible if morning |
Low Clouds (Below 2,000m)
| Cloud | Appearance | Weather Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Stratus | Flat grey blanket | Drizzle or overcast, dull day |
| Stratocumulus | Lumpy grey layer | Dry but cloudy |
| Nimbostratus | Thick dark grey | Steady rain or snow |
Vertical Development Clouds
| Cloud | Appearance | Weather Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Cumulus | Puffy white cotton balls | Fair weather (when small) |
| Cumulonimbus | Towering anvil-shaped | Thunderstorms, heavy rain, possible hail |
Quick Forecast Rules
- Thickening and lowering clouds = worsening weather
- Clouds breaking up and rising = improving weather
- Tall, rapidly growing clouds = storms likely within hours
- Wispy high clouds moving fast = wind and possibly rain coming
Check if rain is forecast for your city on Weather Tomorrow.
Get tomorrow's forecast in your inbox
Free daily weather email. Choose your city, pick your time.
Subscribe — FreeRelated Articles
Weather Tips4 min
Running in Different Weather — A Complete Guide
Rain, heat, cold, wind — each weather condition changes your run. Here is how to adapt your pace, gear, and strategy.
Weather Tips4 min
Planning Outdoor Events Around Weather — A Practical Guide
Concerts, festivals, markets, and sports events all depend on weather. Here is how to plan smart and handle the unexpected.
Weather Tips4 min
Outdoor Wedding Weather Planning — The Complete Guide
Your outdoor wedding depends on weather. Here is how to plan for it, monitor it, and prepare backup options.