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Types of Clouds Explained: Cirrus, Cumulus, Cumulonimbus & More

Tap a cloud type to see its altitude and characteristics.

Cirrus

Altitude: high (roughly 6,000m and above). Thin, wispy, feather-like white clouds. They appear in clear weather but can also signal that a change in weather is on the way.

Cumulus

Altitude: mid to low. Puffy, cotton-candy-like clouds — the classic cloud commonly seen in clear daytime skies.

Stratus

Altitude: low (2,000m and below). A broad, flat layer that blankets the sky in grey, associated with overcast conditions or light drizzle.

Cumulonimbus

Altitude: low base extending to very high. Towering, vertical storm clouds that produce thunder, lightning, heavy showers, and hail.

Stratocumulus

Altitude: low. Grey and white patches that ripple across a wide area of sky, partially covering it, and typically associated with generally mild weather.

Altostratus

Altitude: mid. A grey layer through which the sun or moon appears only dimly, usually covering the whole sky before rain or snow.

Nimbostratus

Altitude: low to mid. A thick, dark-grey layer that completely covers the sky and produces sustained, continuous rain or snow.

How do clouds get their names?

Cloud names are built by combining Latin-derived root forms — cirrus (a wisp of hair), cumulus (a heap), stratus (a layer), nimbus (rain). Because a cloud's shape and altitude can hint at coming weather changes, clouds have long been an important thing for sailors and farmers to watch.

What clouds appear right before rain?

Thick grey clouds like altostratus or nimbostratus spreading across the sky are generally taken as a sign that rain or snow is likely on the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What clouds appear right before it rains?

Thick, grey clouds like altostratus or nimbostratus covering the sky are generally seen as a signal that rain or snow is likely.

Why can cumulonimbus clouds be dangerous?

Cumulonimbus clouds can bring thunder, lightning, hail, and sudden gusts of wind, so extra caution is warranted during hiking or other outdoor activities when they are present.