From Cumulus to Cirrus: Exploring the Diversity of the Sky

6. Stratocumulus: The Low-Lying Patchwork

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Usually found as a patchwork quilt spanning the heavens, stratocumulus clouds are low-level clouds. Usually forming below 6,500 feet, these clouds have a gray or white look that usually features darker spots or rolls. Common sight in many regions of the world, stratocumulus clouds can cover large areas of the sky and produce a unique pattern that might last for hours or even days. Slightly rising air currents meeting a layer of stable air above causes the moisture to condense into cloud droplets, forming stratocumulus clouds. This mechanism frequently occurs in the context of a mild temperature inversion, in which case the air temperature rises with height rather than generally falling. Acting as a "lid," this inversion captures moisture and lets these low-lying clouds develop and disperse. Sometimes stratocumulus clouds allow peeks of blue sky between their cloud patches, a phenomena known as "fair-weather stratocumulus." This variation in thickness can produce lovely patterns of light and shadow on the ground, particularly early morning or late afternoon when the sun is at a low angle. Although they hardly provide precipitation on their own, stratocumulus clouds can be prelude to more significant cloud formations. Often building vast decks over chilly ocean waters, marine stratocumulus clouds are essential in coastal areas in controlling local temperatures. For days or even weeks, these cloud decks can influence temperature patterns and precipitation in surrounding coastal areas. Often reflecting sunlight back into space, these clouds can have a major effect on local temperature, therefore keeping it colder during the day. Seeing stratocumulus clouds can help one get important understanding of local meteorology. In the lower atmosphere, their movement and development can provide wind direction and speed indication. Professional meteorologists as well as weather buffs should find them to be a valuable tool since variations in appearance over time might indicate approaching storms.