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Spot The 10 Cloud Types

According to international agreement, there are ten main cloud types:

  1. Cirrus, 
  2. Cirrocumulus, 
  3. Cirrostratus, 
  4. Altocumulus, 
  5. Altostratus, 
  6. Nimbostratus, 
  7. Stratocumulus, 
  8. Stratus, 
  9. Cumulus, 
  10. Cumulonimbus.

Activity: 
Simply note down on a notepad the different cloud types and its description then go out and spot as many different clouds as you can! 

Another simple technique of observation that is used by those unfamiliar with cloud types is to sketch the visible cloud types with as much detail as possible and then compare it with  proper notes later for classification.

Activity result:
Knowledge of the different cloud types provides the observer with information as to the height of the cloud and its weather associations. When the association of weather and cloud types are well known, you can henceforth make a rough forecast as to what your weather in the next few hours will be! For example, the Cumulonimbus (or Cb cloud) type is associated with thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rain and strong winds ... a good sign to cancel your afternoon picnic!

For more information on clouds from other websites devoted to clouds refer to the links at the end of this article.

If you have your pen and paper ready then ...

BRING IN THE CLOUDS!!!
(First 5 Cloud Types)