Storm architecture · species
Cumulus congestus
The cauliflower towers
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Displayed at reduced resolution. See the original file for full licensing information.
Full credit
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Displayed at reduced resolution. See the original file for full licensing information.
Swipe or scroll sideways to explore the photographs. Photos may include other cloud types; names and credits come from their source records.
Spot it
Strongly rising heaps with sharply defined, cauliflower-like tops.
How it forms
Vigorous convection builds a tall droplet cloud.
Read the sky
These towers can bring showers and may develop further.
Where to look
Look where moist air is rising through a deep unstable layer.
Little sky facts
Reveal fact 1
Congestus has substantial vertical development.
Reveal fact 2
Its upper outlines remain sharply defined.
Reveal fact 3
Towers can grow from smaller cumulus.
Reveal fact 4
A fibrous icy top signals a change toward cumulonimbus.
Try this
Draw the tallest turret without the surrounding sky.
Draw your own cloud ↗Read a little deeper
Met Office · formation and weather
Conditions described here are places to look, not a global frequency ranking. Use local weather forecasts and warnings for decisions. Never look directly at the Sun.