What would happen if clouds did not exist?
Guarantee drinking water
Benefits of not having clouds
Existing cloud types
- Cirrus (Cirrus): These clouds are found at high altitudes, usually above 6,000 meters. They are thin, white, and have a fibrous or feathery appearance. They are composed primarily of ice crystals. Cirrus clouds indicate fair weather, although their presence can precede a change in the weather, such as the arrival of a warm front. To learn more about these formations, you can visit cirrus clouds.
- Cumulus clouds (Cumulus): They are vertically developing clouds with a flat base and a defined outline, resembling floating cotton in the sky. They form at lower altitudes, generally below 2,000 meters. Cumulus clouds usually indicate good weather, but if they continue to develop at altitude, they can become cumulonimbus clouds and cause thunderstorms. For a deeper understanding of their formation, see cumulus clouds.
- Stratus (Stratus): These clouds are low, generally below 2,000 meters, and cover the sky as a uniform, gray layer. Stratus can cause persistent drizzle or fog and generally indicate stable but cloudy weather. For more details, visit the stratus.
- Nimbostratus (Nimbostratus): They are thick, dark clouds that cover large areas of the sky. They are usually associated with continuous precipitation and can last for several hours. Nimbostratus clouds are responsible for moderate to heavy rain and snowfall. To better understand their formation, we recommend: nimbostratus clouds.
- Altocumulus (Altocumulus): These clouds are found at medium altitudes, between 2,000 and 6,000 meters. They appear as white or gray patches and can indicate instability in the atmosphere. Altocumulus clouds can precede thunderstorms if observed in the morning. For more information, visit altocumulus.
- Altostratus (Altostratus): They are gray or bluish clouds that partially or completely cover the sky at medium altitudes. These clouds usually precede warm fronts and can generate light precipitation.
- Cumulonimbus (Cumulonimbus): They are clouds with great vertical development that can extend from low to high altitudes. They have a dark base and a top that can reach the tropopause (around 10,000 to 12,000 meters). Cumulonimbus clouds are responsible for thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and even tornadoes. To learn more, visit cumulonimbus clouds.
