Cirrus Clouds

Cirrus clouds are high-altitude clouds that are thin, wispy, and often have a feathery appearance. They are composed of ice crystals and are found at altitudes of 20,000 to 40,000 feet. Cirrus clouds are typically associated with fair weather, but they can also indicate the approach of a storm.

Characteristics of Cirrus Clouds:

• Thin and wispy appearance
• Found at high altitudes (20,000 to 40,000 feet)
• Composed of ice crystals
• Often have a feathery or filamentous shape
• Can indicate fair weather or the approach of a storm

How are Cirrus Clouds Formed?

Cirrus clouds are formed when water vapor in the atmosphere condenses directly into ice crystals at high altitudes where temperatures are very cold. These ice crystals then combine to form the thin, wispy appearance of cirrus clouds.

Study Guide

Use the following study guide to review and reinforce your understanding of cirrus clouds:

1. What are the characteristics of cirrus clouds?
2. At what altitudes are cirrus clouds typically found?
3. How are cirrus clouds formed?
4. What weather conditions are cirrus clouds associated with?

[Cirrus] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• WeatherScience • Kindergarten
• Understanding WeatherScience • Eighth Grade
• Weather, Weather patterns and climateScience • Fifth Grade
• Earth's AtmosphereScience • Sixth Grade