There are more than 8 different classifications of clouds, but there are only 4 cloud types you are responsible for this year.
Cirrus Stratus Cumulus Cumulonimbus
Cirrus Clouds "Hair-like" Cloud
Elevation: High Level Clouds Composition: Ice Crystals General Appearance: Wispy feather Weather: Isolated: Good (fair) weather They do not produce rain Dense: may warn rain coming - often start building up when a warm front approaches
Cumulus Clouds "Heaped" Clouds
Elevation: Low Level Clouds Composition: Water Droplets (Can have ice if temp is below freezing)
General Appearance: Cotton Balls Weather: depends on density - can develop into severe storms Isolated = fair (good) weather Dense = rain/thunderstorm
Stratus Clouds "Sheet" Cloud
Elevation: Low Level Clouds Composition: Water Droplets (Can have ice if temp is below freezing)
General Appearance: Long Flat Clouds Weather: Steady rain/drizzle
Cumulonimbus Clouds "Heaped Rain" Clouds
Elevation: Multi-level Clouds (stretch from low to high) Composition: Water Droplets and Ice General Appearance: Tall, anvil shape Weather: Thunderstorms, heavy precipitation