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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-three-basic-cloud-types

What are the three basic cloud types?

The basic forms are cumulus, stratus, and cirrus.

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  1. Cumulus, stratus, cirrus ✔
  2. Fog, rain, hail
  3. Low, warm, windy

Why: Cumulus clouds are heaped, stratus clouds form layers, and cirrus clouds are wispy and high. Other cloud names build on these basic forms.

Huh, didn't know that: Nimbo or nimbus in a cloud name, as in nimbostratus or cumulonimbus, points to a cloud that brings rain or snow.

The dad joke
Why did the clouds form a trio? They wanted to cover all the basics!
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References

Answer: Cumulus, stratus, cirrus. Cumulus clouds are heaped, stratus clouds form layers, and cirrus clouds are wispy and high. Other cloud names build on these basic forms.

  1. Civil Air Patrol, Journey of Flight Teacher's Guide www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/2nd_edition_Teachers_Guide_5D3166D76F9B1.pdf
    Three basic cloud types: cumulus, stratus and cirrus.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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