Clouds of the Day - Thursday, October 1, 2020

Sometimes it is difficult to determine the difference between altocumulus and stratocumulus. This is especially true when the stratocumulus and altocumulus are near 6,500 feet - the demarcation line between low and middle cloud families. First of all, remember you are making an estimate of the cloud height by their appearance. Your best guide is your experience in comparing the size of the cloud elements. Altocumulus cloud elements are smaller than stratocumulus. The size of the cloud elements in the photos below suggests they should be categorized as stratocumulus but it is somewhat of a guess.

Stratocumulus

Stratocumulus

Stratocumulus

Stratocumulus