Using Clouds to Predict the Weather
We surface observers admire clouds for their beauty, but clouds are more than just pretty puffs. In fact, clouds can help you predict upcoming weather. Look out for these eight cloud types next time you're out backpacking or boating to avoid being caught off guard by a "sudden" rainfall or thunderstorm.
Cumulus Clouds: All Is Fair
Cumulus clouds are most noticeable for their fluffy white appearance. These low-level clouds typically form on sunny days as the sun heats the ground and warms the air.
Cirrus clouds all is fair for now
Isolated cirrus occur in fair weather. Because they point in the direction of air movement.
Altostratus Clouds: Expect Light Rain
Altostratus clouds are mid-level, flat clouds that appear as gray or blueish-gray clouds expanding across the sky. .
Altocumulus Clouds: Warm With a Risk of Storms
Cirrostratus Cloud moisture moving in
Cirrostratus indicate a large amount of moisture in the upper atmosphere
Stratus clouds: Fog & mist
Stratus clouds are very low forming, gray clouds
Cumulonimbus Storms on there way
Just like you see a cumulus cloud and know it means fair weather, cumulonimbus mean the weather is stormy.
Nimbostratus: Rain please go away!!
Nimbostratus are low-level, dark clouds that usually prevent you from seeing the sun. These shape-less clouds often blanket the entire sky making for a gloomy day.
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