Altostratus cloud

Altostratus cloud

Infobox Cloud
name = Altostratus cloud
image location = AltostratusClouds.jpg


abbreviation = As
symbol = CM_1.png genus= Alto- ("High")
-stratus ("layered")
species=
variety=
altitude_m = 2,000-5,000
altitude_ft = 8,000-20,000
level = medium
appearance = sheet or layer, can usually see the sun through it
precipitation = Yes, large Areas of precipitation

Altostratus is a cloud belonging to a class characterized by a generally uniform gray sheet or layer, lighter in color than nimbostratus and darker than cirrostratus. The sun can be seen shining through them, and they frequently cover the whole sky. They are similar to lower altitude stratus clouds.

Altostratus is caused by a large air mass that is lifted then condensed, usually by an incoming frontal system and can be found over wide-spread areas. Altostratus clouds are potentially dangerous, because they can cause ice accretion on aircraft. Their altitude is from 6,500-20,000 feet. They are made from ice crystals.

External links

* [http://www.clouds-online.com Clouds-Online.com Cloud Atlas with many photos and description of the different cloud genus]
* [http://www.nsdl.arm.gov/Library/glossary.shtml#Altostratus National Science Digital Library - Altostratus]


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