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Cirro Alto Nimbo Nimbus: Cloud Type

The document discusses cloud classification systems, noting that cirro is used for high clouds above 20,000 feet, alto for mid-level clouds between 6,000 and 20,000 feet, and nimbo or nimbus added to a cloud name indicates precipitation. While the system provides general guidelines, there are some inconsistencies, such as stratocumulus describing a cloud with two different shapes. The document concludes by listing common cloud types and their appearances and typical altitude ranges.

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Djustine Faith Garcia Rosario
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71 views

Cirro Alto Nimbo Nimbus: Cloud Type

The document discusses cloud classification systems, noting that cirro is used for high clouds above 20,000 feet, alto for mid-level clouds between 6,000 and 20,000 feet, and nimbo or nimbus added to a cloud name indicates precipitation. While the system provides general guidelines, there are some inconsistencies, such as stratocumulus describing a cloud with two different shapes. The document concludes by listing common cloud types and their appearances and typical altitude ranges.

Uploaded by

Djustine Faith Garcia Rosario
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Cirro is the prefix given to high clouds, those with bases above 20,000 feet.

Alto is the prefix given to mid-level clouds, those between 6,000 and 20,000 feet. Nimbo added to the beginning, or nimbus added to the end of a cloud name means the cloud is producing precipiation. The system is by no means uniform. There is no term for low clouds, and there are some odd joinings, such as stratocumulus, which is a cloud with two different shapes. So here's how some cloud types stack up...
Cloud Type Appearance Altitude

Cumulonimbus Cirrostratus Cirrus Cirrocumulus Altostratus Altocumulus Stratocumulus Cumulus Stratus

Thunderheads Thin, wispy, above thunderheads Thin, often with "mare's tail" Small puffy clouds Thin, uniform, sometimes with "wide wale corduroy" appearance Medium-sized puffy clouds Broad and flat on the bottom, puffy on top Puffy clouds Uniform, thick to thin layered clouds

Near ground to above 50,000 feet Above 18,000 feet Above 18,000 feet Above 18,000 feet 6,000 - 20,000 feet 6,000 - 20,000 feet Below 6,000 feet Below 6,000 feet Below 6,000 feet

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