Clouds
The four basic cloud types are
* cirrus
* stratus
* cumulus
* nimbus
Cirrus comes from the Latin for "thin," "wispy," or "curl of hair." And that is how cirrus clouds appear from the ground. Sometimes they are called mare's tails. These clouds often tell us that change is on the way. A storm may be approaching, or warmer air could be knocking on the door.
Stratus comes from the Latin meaning "layer." These clouds are flat and stay close to the ground.
Cumulus comes from the Latin for "puffy." Those are the fleecy-looking clouds that help paint the sky on a pleasant, quiet day. But these clouds are noted for their strong vertical development. They can form towers, and when they do, watch out. The sky can open up into a violent thunderstorm.
Nimbus comes from the Latin for "rain-bearing." Any cloud that delivers rain is a nimbus cloud.
Cirrus - "thin," "wispy," or "curl of hair"
Stratus - "layer"
Cumulus - "puffy"
Nimbus - "rain-bearing"
Classification of Clouds
* High Level Clouds – 6 to 18 km Cirrus, Cirrostratus, Cirrocumulus
* Middle level Clouds – 2 to 8 km Altostratus, Altocumulus
* Low level Clouds – 0 to 2 km Stratus, Stratocumulus, Nimbostratus, Cumulus, Cumulonimbus
Free powerpoint on Clouds >>
Download Clouds in PDF >>
