Pilvetüüpe

Pilvetüüpe is a term used to classify clouds based on their appearance and altitude. These classifications help meteorologists understand atmospheric conditions and predict weather patterns. The primary categories are based on shape and altitude.

High-level clouds, found above 20,000 feet, are typically thin and wispy. Cirrus clouds are feathery and often indicate fair weather, but can also signal an approaching warm front. Cirrocumulus clouds appear as small, white patches or ripples, sometimes referred to as a "mackerel sky." Cirrostratus clouds are thin, sheet-like clouds that can create halos around the sun or moon.

Mid-level clouds exist between 6,500 and 20,000 feet. Altocumulus clouds are puffy or rounded masses, often arranged in waves or parallel bands. Altostratus clouds are grayish or bluish sheets that can cover the entire sky, making the sun appear as if seen through ground glass.

Low-level clouds are found below 6,500 feet. Stratus clouds are uniform, gray sheets that resemble fog but do not reach the ground. Stratocumulus clouds are lumpy, gray or whitish clouds that can cover the sky in a broken or continuous layer. Nimbostratus clouds are dark, gray, and featureless, typically producing continuous rain or snow.

Clouds with vertical development can span multiple altitude levels. Cumulus clouds are detached, puffy clouds with flat bases, often described as looking like cotton balls. These can develop into cumulonimbus clouds, which are dense, towering clouds associated with thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and lightning. Understanding these pilvetüüpe is fundamental to meteorology.