Stratocumulus clouds are low-lying clouds that can come in over a dozen varieties, often associated with cloudy weather but carrying little chance of precipitation. They are one of the ten main types of clouds and can form near bodies of water, subtropical regions or areas with high humidity levels. They can herald larger storms but generally bring temperate weather.
Stratocumulus, sometimes abbreviated Sc, is a meteorological term used to describe low-lying clouds that form thick masses. Stratocumulus clouds can come in over a dozen varieties, depending on the shape, density, and uniformity of the cloud. Generally associated with cloudy weather, these low, lumpy clouds carry little chance of precipitation, but can herald larger storms.
The term “stratocumulus” comes from two Latin words, stratus and cumulus. The first word roughly translates as “flattened”, while the second means a pile or lump. The combined term thus refers to a type of cloud that is low in the sky, flattened over a large area, but also sharply defined as opposed to wispy. Stratocumulus clouds are often responsible for completely overcast skies, although small breaks in the clouds and varying levels of opacity can allow sunlight to filter through. This type of cloud is one of the ten main types used in cloud identification.
There are several varieties of stratocumulus, each with a distinct appearance. Sc opacus clouds are a thick, unbroken layer of clouds that allow little light to penetrate. Sc undulatus clouds form broad, undulating bands across the sky, often creating a dramatic skyscape. Sc castellanus is distinguished by a vertical turret-like shape that expands upward above the flattened base of the cloud.
These fairly common forms of clouds often form near bodies of water. If a cold air front rolls over a rising column of moist air, these clouds can form near the point of contact. Because marine bodies tend to create a low level of warm, moist air, Sc clouds tend to form over marine areas. They are also common in subtropical regions or areas with high humidity levels.
Although Sc clouds rarely bring significant amounts of rain or snow, they can form just before or after a larger storm. If the weather is clear and warm and becomes overcast with a Sc layer, it could be a sign that a storm is approaching. Conversely, if a rain or snow storm is present, stratocumulus clouds can form as the storm system moves out of the region. The presence of an Sc layer does not always correlate with the existence of a nearby thunderstorm; in general, these clouds bring temperate weather with them, as they can dampen warm temperatures or lessen the impact of a cold front.
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