WEATHER CLIMATE WATER

CLOUD IDENTIFICATION GUIDE

START HERE Learn how to identify cloud types by using this flow chart from the
International Cloud Atlas. Clouds are divided into 10 fundamental
types known as genera, depending on their general form. The genera are
then further subdivided based on a clouds particular shape, structure
Is lightning
and transparency; the arrangement of its elements; the presence of
seen, or thunder
heard? any accessory or dependent clouds; and how it was formed.

Is there
Are individual a uniform, Are there white,
bulging heaps or continuous or broken wispy fibres or
domes clearly visible? layer that has no rolls filaments?
or elements?

Cumulonimbus (Cb) Cirrus (Ci)

Huge cloud tower, sometimes with anvil. Hooks, feathers, bands or patches with
Possible thunderstorm. silky shimmer.

Are there fuzzy

outlines at the
upper third part of Is each
the cloud? element smaller
than 1 finger (arm
outstretched)?

Does the Sun or

Moon appear as a
bright patch?

Cirrostratus (Cs) Cirrocumulus (Cc)

Transparent milky or fibrous veil; casts Thin, pure white fields of small grains or
shadow, produces halo. ripples at a high level. Size < 1

Is there an
elevated grey or Is each rounded
bluish to dark grey element 1-3 fingers
sheet-like layer? in size?

Cumulus (Cu)
Isolated, puffy cloud with sharp outlines.
Altocumulus (Ac)
Altostratus (As) White/grey patches (turreted, lens
Smooth, extensive layer; casts shaped or balls of cotton), sheets or
Is there a no shadow, even if Sun/Moon is structured layer with undulations or rolls.
dense, extensive, recognizable as a blurred dot. Size 1 3
lower layer with
diffuse or wet
appearance?
Stratus-type clouds

Stratus (St) Stratocumulus (Sc)

Grey-whitish low layer, sometimes with Nimbostratus (Ns) Grey or whitish fields, rolls or bundles,
drizzle or snow grains. If Sun/Moon is Dark rain cloud or bright snow cloud. with rounded edges, at low level;
visible, its outline is clear. Can occur in Usually continuous rain, snow or ice regularly arranged elements.
fragments. pellets. Size 5 10 (full hand)

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