Cloud: A visible collection of minute particle matter, such as water droplets and/or ice crystals, in the free air. A cloud forms in the atmosphere as a result of condensation of water vapor. Condensation nuclei, such as in smoke or dust particles, form a surface upon which water vapor can condense.

 

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Cloud: A visible collection of minute particle matter, such as water droplets and/or ice crystals, in the free air. A cloud forms in the atmosphere as a result of condensation of water vapor. Conde . . . View Full Definition

Comma Cloud: A feature seen on satellite images with a distinctive comma-shape. This is indicative of a synoptic cloud pattern associated with large, well-developed low pressure systems.

Cloud Bank: A well-defined cloud mass that can be observed at a distance. It covers the horizon, but is not directly overhead.

Lenticular Cloud: A cloud species which has elements resembling smooth lenses or almonds and more or less isolated. These clouds are caused by a wave wind pattern created by the mountains. They are also indic . . . View Full Definition

Partly Cloudy: The state of the weather when the clouds are conspicuously present, but do not completely dull the sky or the day at any moment. The National Weather Service does not have an amount of sky c . . . View Full Definition

High Clouds: A term used to signify cirriform clouds that are composed of ice crystals and generally have bases above 20,000 feet. The main types of high clouds are cirrus,cirrocumulus, and cirrostratus. . . . View Full Definition

Middle Clouds: A term used to signify clouds with bases between 6,000 and 18,000 feet. At the higher altitudes, they may also have some ice crystals, but they are composed mainly of water droplets. Altocum . . . View Full Definition

Debris Cloud: Considered a rotating cloud of debris or dust that is on the ground or near the ground. The debris cloud appearing beneath a thunderstorm will most likely confirm the presence of a tornado.

Low Clouds: A term used to signify clouds with bases below 6,000 feet and are of a stratiform or a cumuliform variety. Stratiform clouds include stratus and stratocumulus. Cumuliform clouds include cumu . . . View Full Definition

Noctilucent Clouds: Rarely seen clouds of tiny ice particles that form approximately 75 to 90 kilometers above the earth's surface. They have been seen only during twilight (dusk and dawn) during the summer mon . . . View Full Definition