Weather in Action: Cloud Types

Clouds vary in shapes, sizes, and colors. The three main types are cumulus, stratus, and cirrus. Cumulus clouds are white and puffy, indicating fair weather but can lead to thunderstorms when large. Stratus clouds are smooth and gray, covering the sky and bringing rain or snow. Cirrus clouds, known as mares tails, form at high altitudes and consist of ice crystals. Most clouds are variations of these three types.

What are the three main types of clouds based on?

• Their location

• Their temperature

• Their appearance

• Their altitude

What weather condition do cumulus clouds usually indicate?

• Windy weather

• Snowy weather

• Fair weather

• Stormy weather

What happens when cumulus clouds grow large and dark at the bottom?

• They bring snow

• They produce thunderstorms

• They disappear

• They turn into stratus clouds

What are stratus clouds known for?

• Bringing rain or snow

• Being fluffy and white

• Forming at high altitudes

• Being made of ice crystals

What are cirrus clouds commonly made of?

• Water droplets

• Dust particles

• Ice crystals

• Sand particles