Radar Surface Maps Isobars Isotherms Types of Clouds Clouds can be categorized as low level, mid-level, and high level. Mid Level Clouds Mid level clouds have cloud bases typically between 6,500 to 23,000 ft. High Level Clouds High clouds typically from above 20,000 ft. and are composed primarily of ice crystals, since temperatures are so cold at such high elevations.
All clouds have different names and each cloud can be used in predicting storms.
Cirrus Cirrostratus Nimbostartus Stratocumulus Altocumulus Cumulus Cirrus clouds are thin, whispy clouds composed of ice crystals. Cirrostratus clouds allows fog to form around the bases. Nimbostratus clouds are typically dark grey and are associated with light to moderately falling rain or snow. Stratocumulus typically appear near sunset, and are the spreading remains of much larger cumulus clouds. Altocumulus generally appear as puffy air masses.