Common Clouds

Clouds come in many forms. They are named after their shape and how high in the sky they are. Get the scoop on four types of clouds.
Thin and Feathery

When it’s nice out, you might see cirrus clouds. They are high in the sky. Some people say they look like hair.
Thick and Puffy

Cumulonimbus clouds hold rain. They are closer to the ground.
Cotton Balls

warren bolster—getty images
WARREN BOLSTER—GETTY IMAGESCumulus clouds are seen on sunny days. They are puffy. They are fairly low in the sky.
Long Layers

vlad romensky—getty images
VLAD ROMENSKY—GETTY IMAGESOn foggy, rainy days, flat layers of stratus clouds cover the sky. They often cause drizzling rain