Clouds

Predict the Weather by learning Cloud Types

High Clouds

Cirrus Clouds appear about 24-36 hrs before a

change in the weather

More Cirrus Clouds

Middle Clouds

Altocumulus clouds are about the size of your thumb when held at arms length.                                      

Middle Clouds

Altostratus are a thinner form of

stratus clouds found higher in the atmosphere

Low Clouds

Nimbostratus are rain-bearing clouds that cover the sky in one

large layer.

Low Clouds

Cumulus clouds are puffy, and form individually, or as one large thunderstorm.

Clouds that grow…

Cumulonimbus clouds are thunderstorm

clouds!

Another growing cloud…

This cumulonimbus was photographed from an

airplane.

A Severe Storm Cloud Mammatus clouds are

often seen before a tornado or funnel cloud appears

Severe Storm Cloud A Wall Cloud signals an approaching front

How Do Clouds Form?1. Warm, humid air near the

ground is heated.

2. The Warm Air rises.

3. The air cools as it rises.

4. The temp. of the air reaches the dewpoint temp.

5. The water changes from a gas to liquid water.

DEWPOINT!!!Dewpoint temperature

always has to be the same or less than the air temperature.

What do we see when the air temp and dewpoint are the same at ground level?

FOG !!!

Try to identify the following cloud photos..

Cumulus

Cumulonimbus

Cirrus

Altostratus

Altocumulus

Cirrus

Towering Cumulus or

Cumulonimbus

Cumulus

Towering Cumulus

Lenticular