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CLOUD TYPES
A Cloud is a visible mass of condensed watery vapour or ice crystals, floating in the sky. There are many different types of clouds, but they are basically divided up into two different sections based on their altitude: layered and convective. From there they are grouped into four different families: High, Middle, Low and Vertical. Here are some basic cloud formations.
Cirrocumulus
These horizon spanning clouds are part of the High Cloud family and can be found 5000m - 13000m in the sky. Some call them mackerel clouds because of their puffy white patterns which create a scale-like effect across the sky.
Cirrus Clouds
One of the most typical formations that occur from the High Cloud family is the Cirrus. These are characterized by their thin, traily, wispiness. They splay across the sky in the direction of the wind.
Altostratus
Stratus clouds are the type that spread across the sky in thin layers. One of these types are the Altostratus, which belongs to the medium cloud family,(alto meaning medium). Sunlight can pierce through these light clouds, however, if they build up, rain is sure to come. Coincidentally, Alto Stratus is also the name of a character from Star Wars.
Altocumulus
During a cold front when unstable air is lifted, this medium cloud formation will occur. These white or grey clouds are usually thin and stretch across the sky in patterns of puffballs, bands, ribbons or waves.
Cumulus
These huge, puffy clouds are probably my favourite type, occuring lower in the sky and indicating fair weather. The base of these are flat and they grow upward, creating columns of cotton-like bodies.
Nimbostratus
These gloomy clouds engulf the sky in a uniform grey. They indicate rain, rain, rain. Or maybe snow.
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