How to Tell the Weather from Clouds
High-Level Clouds (Above 20,000 ft)
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• Cirrus: Thin, wispy “mare’s tails.” Fair now, but rain likely in 24–48 hours.
• Cirrocumulus: “Mackerel scales.” Change in weather coming.
• Cirrostratus: Thin veil, creates a halo around sun/moon. Rain/snow in 12–24 hours.
Mid Level Clouds (6,500 – 20,000 ft)
• Altostratus: Gray sheet. Steady rain/snow arriving in a few hours.
• Altocumulus: Fluffy balls. On warm mornings, signals afternoon thunderstorms.
Low-Level Clouds (Below 6,500 ft)
• Cumulus: “Cotton balls.” Small means fair; vertical growth means storms.
• Stratus: Flat gray blanket. Gloomy with drizzle or mist.
• Stratocumulus: Lumpy and dark. Storm brewing or front passing.
Dan’ger Clouds
• Nimbostratus: Dark and thick. Steady, prolonged rain.
• Cumulonimbus: Towering with anvil top. Heavy rain, lightning, and thunder.
• Wall/Shelf Clouds: Wedge-shaped. Severe winds and potential tornadoes.
Quick Tips
• Vertical Growth: Atmosphere is unstable; expect a storm.
• Dark Color: Cloud is heavy with water; rain is imminent.
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