Differences Between 15 Cloud Types With Pictures

Have you ever had a look at the sky and wondered how clouds look different at different times? Clouds come in all shapes and sizes because all are not created equal. Some are erratic and inconsistent, while some clouds are puffy and sweet. Although all clouds are made of ice crystals and water droplets, different types of clouds are classified depending on the form and how high up they hover in the troposphere.

In this article, we have provided you with the major types of clouds and their differentiating characteristics. Read on!

Main Groups Of Clouds:

There are three primary levels for dividing the types of clouds with different groups of clouds that make up for Ten fundamental kinds of clouds.

• High-Level Clouds:

Clouds that form above 20,000 feet are called High-level clouds. Cirrus, Cirrostratus, Cirrocumulus are examples of high-level clouds.

• Middle-Level Clouds:

Clouds that form between 6,500 and 20,000 feet are called middle-level clouds. Altocumulus, Nimbostratus, Altostratus are examples of middle-level clouds.

• Low-Level Clouds:

Clouds that form below 6,500 feet are called low-level clouds. Cumulus, Stratus, Stratocumulus are examples of low-level clouds.

Different Types Of Clouds:

Below, we have given you detailed information about the types of clouds and their characteristics, differentiating features, and weather effects. Scroll down.

High-Level Cloud Types:

1. Cirrus Clouds:

Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy, have a silky sheen appearance that can be seen any time of the year, and are one of the most common types of clouds. The cirrus cloud’s transparency is determined by the degree of separation of ice crystals. Besides their filament appearance, these clouds are often coloured in bright yellow or red before sunrise and after sunset, respectively making them stand out among other cloud types. Although Cirrus clouds occur in fair weather, it might also indicate a storm coming.