Clouds of the Day - July 1, 2022 - From Cumulus to Cirrus

Today was two days in one. It started with considerable cloudiness and two dense cloud layers; altocumulus underneath altostratus…

Photo by Craig Johnson, Weather Briefing, LC

Then came clearing and an unusual patch of cirrus. Cirrus often look like strands of hair. The cirrus in the photo below formed in an isolated patch.

Photo by Craig Johnson, Weather Briefing LC

Then came the traditional looking cirrus. The cirrus below are called cirrus uncinus, commonly called mares’ tails. Notice the hook shape with streams of ice crystals falling away from the leading edge of the cloud.

Photo by Craig Johnson, Weather Briefing, LC