Knowra Stratus cloud Stratus cloud A low, uniform cloud layer that often covers the sky and may produce mist or light drizzle. Its featureless appearance distinguishes it from clouds with distinct heaps or towers.
Cloud formation : The process by which water vapor condenses or freezes into visible droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere. Stratus forms when moist air near the surface cools to saturation and spreads into a layer.
Cloud : A visible collection of water droplets, ice crystals, or both suspended in the atmosphere. Stratus is one cloud form, defined by its broad, layered shape.
Stratocumulus cloud : A low cloud genus composed of rounded masses or rolls, often arranged in a layer. Unlike uniform stratus, it has visible lumps or breaks.
Ceiling (meteorology) : The height of the lowest cloud layer covering more than half the sky, or the vertical visibility into obscuration. A stratus base often sets the ceiling used in aviation forecasts.
Overcast : A sky condition in which clouds obscure at least 95 percent of the celestial dome. A broad stratus deck is a common cause of overcast skies.
Temperature inversion : An atmospheric condition in which temperature increases with height over a layer instead of decreasing. An inversion limits vertical mixing, helping stratus remain flat and persistent.
Low-level cloud : A cloud whose base lies in the lower part of the troposphere, generally below about 2 kilometers. Stratus belongs to this altitude group, where it can obscure the surface.
Nimbostratus : A thick, widespread cloud layer that produces sustained precipitation, often for hours. It resembles stratus in its layered extent but is thicker and brings steadier precipitation.
Meteorological visibility : The greatest distance at which an object can be seen and identified under prevailing atmospheric conditions. Stratus, mist, and drizzle can reduce visibility near the surface.
Orographic cloud : A cloud formed when terrain forces moist air upward and cooling brings it to saturation. Stratus can form along slopes when stable moist air is lifted over terrain.
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