Science Common Sense
918 - What are the different types of clouds, and what do they tell us about the weather?
There are three main types of clouds:
- Cirrus clouds: They are thin and wispy, look like feathers. They often mean fair weather, but can also be a sign that a storm is coming.
- Cumulus clouds: They are big and puffy, look like cotton balls. They usually mean good weather, but can sometimes grow into thunderstorms.
- Stratus clouds: They are low and flat, cover the whole sky like a blanket. They often mean cloudy or rainy weather.
There are also other types of clouds that can tell us about the weather, such as: - Nimbus clouds: They are dark and thick, mean rain or even thunderstorms. - Cumulonimbus clouds: They are tall and towering, can mean strong thunderstorms or even tornadoes. - Altocumulus clouds: They are mid-level clouds, can mean a change in the weather.
By looking at the type and shape of clouds, we can often guess what the weather will be like.