When learning how to identify clouds, practice makes perfect! It is through regular practice that we learn. Cloud identification can be a little frustrating because clouds do not always fit into nice neat categories. Not only to we need to estimate the cloud height (low, middle, high, or vertical through more than one layer) but we also need to identify the cloud shape. Doing those two things correctly leads us to one of ten correct principle cloud type names.

The first three images below all belong to one principle cloud type - cumulus. They are all heap type clouds - puffy clouds - which are a principle cloud type. You may stop right there because the principle cloud type would be a valid name for each of these clouds. Clouds may be further identified by adding their second (species) or third (variety) names. See the cloud supplemental section of the website for more information.

Weather Briefing, L.C.

Weather Briefing, L.C.

WxBlog

Weather Briefing, L.C.

The Weather Blog

Clouds of the Day - Practice Makes Perfect

Weather Briefing, L.C.