Stratus clouds are like a big, gray blanket in the sky! They're flat and spread out, covering a large area. Think of them as low-lying clouds, closer to the Earth than many other types.
What do Stratus Clouds Look Like?
- They are flat and layer-like, stretching out for long distances.
- Their color varies from dark gray (when they might bring drizzle) to nearly white.
- They often look hazy or featureless, unlike fluffy cumulus clouds.
- Sometimes, they're so low they look like fog! In fact, fog is a type of stratus cloud that's very close to the ground.
Where are Stratus Clouds Found?
Stratus clouds are low-level clouds, meaning they are found close to the Earth's surface.
What Does "Stratus" Mean?
The word "stratus" comes from the Latin word "strato," which means "layer." This perfectly describes how these clouds look – as a flat layer across the sky.
What Kind of Weather Do Stratus Clouds Bring?
Stratus clouds often mean an overcast day. They can bring light rain or drizzle, or simply a dull, gray sky. They can sometimes hang around for several days!
Stratus Clouds vs. Other Clouds
Unlike fluffy cumulus clouds or wispy cirrus clouds, stratus clouds are flat and spread out. They are different from altostratus clouds which are at a higher altitude, although altostratus clouds are similar in appearance to stratus clouds.
