Cloud genera are divided into species to account for their particular shape and internal structure. Certain species only ...

Social media users were blown away by the unusual sighting, with one saying "I witnessed something like this in Oklahoma a few years ago, it's breathtaking." ...

Dear Tom, When I see clouds, they often appear to be flat on the bottom and fluffy on top. Why is that? — Paul Fleming, Warrenville Dear Paul, You are referring to cumulus clouds, the most co… ...

Updated: May 30, 2025 / 11:44 PM EDT GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Cloud formations are a key indicator of atmospheric conditions, and flat clouds with fluffy tops are especially telling.

Cumulus clouds are often noted for their puffy, white appearance, and unlike flat stratus clouds, they can form little turrets of convection that look like the tops of cauliflower.

Not all summertime clouds are billowy, however. Higher up in the atmosphere, flat-topped clouds made of ice often form at very high altitudes where the rising columns of air do not penetrate.

NORFOLK, Va. — Spotting a cumulus cloud is pretty easy. The clouds resemble pieces of cotton candy, but why are cumulus clouds fluffy and not flat?

"Clouds can grow very tall or appear flat as a pancake. They are typically white in color but can also be different shades of gray or brilliant yellow, orange, or red.

Not all summertime clouds are billowy, however. Higher up in the atmosphere, flat-topped clouds made of ice often form at very high altitudes where the rising columns of air do not penetrate.

Graphic on cloud classification. "Clouds can grow very tall or appear flat as a pancake. They are typically white in color but can also be different shades of gray or brilliant yellow, orange, or red.