Asperatus clouds again

A typical English scene?

Asperatus cloud formations are a new addition to the description of clouds.

To see other photos from a previous article click here.

Asperatus clouds

Have you ever seen clouds like this?

There are many different kind of cloud, but there are only three main groups, cirrus, stratus and cumulus.

This representation is not to scale

This picture shows you the three types with one extra, a kind of cumulus cloud known as cumulo-nimbus.

Recently some scientists have said that the cloud in the top picture cannot be described by the three types, and it should have its own name.

They have called it asperatus, which is from Latin, meaning ‘to make rough’. And it sure looks rough! I wouldn’t like to be walking around without an umbrella under these clouds.

And if you want to see another picture of asperatus cloud here you are:

It looks beautiful in a photo.

And there is another here.

Storm clouds

Not the best day for sunbathing

The sky is getting darker, the waves are getting stronger, and the storm clouds are approaching the coast of Italy.

Isn’t this a better sight than a sunny day?

Clouds: stratocumulus

Looks good, but a sign of bad weather to come

Stratocumulus cloud is a layer of wavy clouds. It is not so high in the sky, and can make the day feel overcast, but does not usually bring rain.

However it often comes at the front of bad weather. Following behind the straocumulus may be some thunderstorms or strong winds

Clouds: stratus

A cloud mountain

Stratus cloud can range from dark grey to white. It is not so high in the sky, but does not usually bring rain. However it makes the day seem dark and gloomy.

The word ’stratus’ comes from Latin, and simply means ‘layer’ or ‘blanket’. Sometimes stratus cloud can perform an amazing effect as in the photo above.