A wispy cloud is a cloud formation that appears thin, feathery, and delicate in the sky.
Characteristics of Wispy Clouds
These clouds, often known as cirrus clouds, possess distinct characteristics:
- Appearance: They look like fine, white streaks or patches across the sky.
- Composition: Wispy clouds are composed entirely of ice crystals due to their high altitude.
- Formation: They form in the upper troposphere where temperatures are very low.
- Weather Indicator: According to the reference, cirrus clouds can indicate an approaching warm front or upper-level jet streak.
Cirrus Clouds vs. Cirrostratus Clouds
It's important to distinguish cirrus clouds from cirrostratus clouds, which are also high-level clouds:
| Feature | Cirrus Clouds | Cirrostratus Clouds |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Wispy, feathery | Widespread, veil-like layer |
| Coverage | Often scattered | Covers a larger portion of the sky |
In summary, a wispy cloud is a cirrus cloud characterized by its thin, feathery appearance and composition of ice crystals, often signaling changing weather patterns.
