Cloud species are a set of fourteen terms used to describe the shape and structure of clouds. Each one has its name abbreviated to a three letter term.[1] [2] [3]

Cumulus congestus clouds in the foreground.
SpeciesAbbreviationDescriptionGenera
CalvuscalTops of clouds lose hard, rough appearance and become smoothCb
CapillatuscapTops of clouds become distinctly fibrous or striated. Cirrus clouds are often in appearanceCb
CastellanuscasDistinct turrets rising from a large base or line of cloudSc, Ac, Cc
CongestusconGreat vertical height much larger than the base, shows vigorous growth with cauliflower like topsCu
FibratusfibFibrous appearance, with straight or uniform curves and no distinct hooksCi, Cs
FloccusfloIndividual tufts of clouds with ragged bases and often with noticeable virgaAc, Cc, Ci
FractusfraBroken cloud with ragged bases and edgesCu, St
HumilishumCloud with limited vertical height with a length much bigger than their heightCu
LenticularislenLens or almond shaped clouds that are stationary in the skySc, Ac, Cc
MediocrismedClouds of moderate height that are around equal height and length, growing upwardsCu
NebulosusnebFeatureless sheet of cloud with no structureSt, Cs
SpissatusspiDense cloud appearing lighter shade of grey when viewed toward the sunCi
StratiformisstrCloud in an extensive sheet or layerSc, Ac, Cc
UncinusuncDistinctly hooked usually without a visible headCi

References

  1. " "Weather Facts: Accessory clouds | weatheronline.co.uk".
  2. "Genera and species".
  3. "Cloud classification summary".

See also


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