Cumulonimbus calvus praecipitatio (Cb cal pra)
Learn to identify a cloud that holds the classification of Cumulonimbus calvus (Cb cal) in this week's cloud classification lesson.
Work through the clues →Cloud Identification and Classification Made Easy
Learn cloud identification, explore cloud classification, and get to know the many cloud types found in our skies. What's This Cloud combines original artwork, real-world photography, and detailed educational material for teachers, students, pilots, weather enthusiasts, and skywatchers alike.
Learn cloud classification beyond the ten cloud types
Identifying a cloud starts with its type, but a complete cloud classification can also include a species, variety, or supplementary feature. An accessory cloud or origin term can add more detail. Explore all six levels through original cloud illustrations and real examples.
10
Cumulus
Cumulus humilis
Cumulus radiatus
Cumulus fluctus
Cumulus pileus
Cumulus flammagenitus
CumulusCloud Types
The ten main cloud genera, organized by height and shape.
Explore cloud types →15Cumulus humilisCloud Species
Distinct shapes and structures within a cloud type.
Explore cloud species →09Cumulus radiatusCloud Varieties
Cloud arrangements, transparency, and repeating patterns.
Explore cloud varieties →11Cumulus fluctusSupplementary Features
Special formations attached to or associated with a cloud.
Explore supplemental features →04Cumulus pileusAccessory Clouds
Smaller clouds that accompany a larger parent cloud.
Explore accessory clouds →05Cumulus flammagenitusOther Clouds
Clouds named for how they formed or changed.
Explore other clouds →Beautifully designed cloud identification posters
Choose from several cloud identification and classification poster designs created to make the full cloud system easier to understand at a glance.
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How to identify clouds and build a full classification
Start with height, shape, coverage, and precipitation to identify the cloud type. Then learn when species, varieties, features, and accessories complete the cloud classification.
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Practice identifying clouds with step-by-step lessons
Work from a real photograph to a complete cloud classification. Each lesson explains the visible clues and why every term applies.
Stratus opacus undulatus (St op un)
Learn to identify a cloud that holds the classification of Stratus undulatus (St un) in this week's cloud classification lesson.
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Altocumulus lenticularis duplicatus (Ac len du)
Learn to identify a cloud that holds the classification of Altocumulus lenticularis (Ac len) in this week's cloud classification lesson.
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Learn cloud identification with a free 80+ page ebook
Take the visual guide with you. The ebook explains the ten types of clouds with original photographs, illustrations, identification tips, and comparisons between similar clouds.
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