Scientists do not know exactly which types of clouds predominate
in different storms. Clouds have traditionally been classified by
their appearance and height in the atmosphere. This traditional
classification system is shown in the table below. Inspect the table
and indicate, using the menu provided below it, three types
of clouds that might commonly be seen as a storm system passes
overhead. Click on each image to view a larger version thereof.
cirrus*
cirrostratus*
deep convective*
altocumulus*
altostratus
nimbostratus*
cumulus*
stratocumulus*
stratus
*Image from the
University of Illinois WW2010 Project.
Which three types of clouds are
commonly seen as a storm system passes overhead?
Discuss your choices with your instructor before proceeding.
Make a note of your hypothesis for later reference. Go on to predict
the major cloud types you think might expect to see
during the passage of a storm system.
