Weather Alerts for New York

This map shows recent moisture content over North America. Bright and colored areas show high moisture (ie, clouds); brown indicates very little moisture present; black indicates no moisture.

Weather Topic: What are Stratus Clouds?

Home - Education - Cloud Types - Stratus Clouds

Next Topic: Wall Clouds

Stratus clouds are similar to altostratus clouds, but form at a lower altitude and are identified by their fog-like appearance, lacking the distinguishing features of most clouds.

Stratus clouds are wider than most clouds, and their base has a smooth, uniform look which is lighter in color than a nimbostratus cloud. The presence of a stratus cloud indicates the possibility of minor precipitation, such as drizzle, but heavier precipitation does not typically arrive in the form of a stratus cloud.

Next Topic: Wall Clouds

Weather Topic: What are Altocumulus Clouds?

Home - Education - Cloud Types - Altocumulus Clouds

Next Topic: Altostratus Clouds

Similar to cirrocumulus clouds, altocumulus clouds are characterized by cloud patches. They are distinguished by larger cloudlets than cirrocumulus clouds but are still smaller than stratocumulus clouds.

Altocumulus clouds most commonly form in middle altitudes (between 2 and 5 km) and may resemble, at times, the shape of a flying saucer. These uncommon formations, called altocumulus lenticularis, are created by uplift in the atmosphere and are most often seen in close proximity to mountains.

Next Topic: Altostratus Clouds