Clouds are generally quite cold, especially at higher altitudes.
Cloud Temperatures
The temperature of a cloud depends on its altitude. According to the reference, most clouds are composed of ice and snow because temperatures drop below freezing quickly as you move higher in the atmosphere.
- High-Altitude Clouds: The reference states that temperatures in higher clouds can reach well below -50°F (-45°C). These extremely cold temperatures explain why these clouds are made of ice crystals.
- Lower-Altitude Clouds: As the ice and snow fall toward the ground, they enter warmer air, which is why they eventually turn into rain.
Key Takeaways
- Clouds are primarily composed of ice and snow due to low temperatures.
- Cloud temperatures decrease with altitude, with higher clouds reaching temperatures below -50°F.
- The ice and snow melt as they fall through warmer air toward the ground, forming rain.
| Cloud Type | Typical Temperature |
|---|---|
| High Clouds | Well below -50°F (-45°C) |
| Lower Clouds | Closer to the ambient temperature at lower altitude |
