What Do Clouds Tell Us About the Weather

Clouds are essential indicators of weather, formed by water droplets or ice crystals when warm air rises and cools. They vary by altitude: high-level clouds are icy, mid-level clouds are mixed, and low-level clouds are mostly water droplets. Vertical clouds span multiple levels. There are ten main cloud types, each with distinct features and weather implications, such as cirrus for fair weather and cumulonimbus for storms.

What happens to water vapor as warm air rises and cools in the atmosphere?

• It turns into large water droplets.

• It evaporates completely.

• It remains unchanged.

• It forms tiny droplets or ice crystals.

Which prefix is used for high-level clouds?

• Alto

• Nimbo

• Stratus

• Cirro

At what altitude do mid-level clouds typically form?

• Above 20,000 feet

• At sea level

• Between 6,500 and 20,000 feet

• Below 6,500 feet

Which type of cloud is known for causing thunderstorms and potentially tornadoes?

• Cirrus

• Cumulonimbus

• Altostratus

• Stratus

What type of weather is typically associated with cumulus clouds?

• Snowy and cold

• Rainy and stormy

• Clear and sunny

• Foggy and humid