Everyday skies · genus
Nimbostratus
The patient rainmaker
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Full credit
Own work
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
A thick, dim layer with a diffuse base and widespread precipitation.
How it forms
Broad ascent deepens a moist cloud layer.
Read the sky
Often associated with sustained rain or snow rather than isolated showers.
Where to look
Look within widespread weather systems, especially near fronts.
Little sky facts
Reveal fact 1
Its thickness usually hides the Sun.
Reveal fact 2
Falling precipitation can blur the cloud base.
Reveal fact 3
Ragged low clouds may appear underneath.
Reveal fact 4
The rain-bearing layer can extend across several atmospheric levels.
Try this
Sketch the soft edge where cloud blends into rain.
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.