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
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