INI

Ten Cloud Genera - INI

The Ten Cloud Genera is a fundamental cloud classification system established in the International Cloud Atlas published by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Based on the Latin nomenclature proposed by Luke Howard in 1803, it classifies clouds into ten genera according to their morphological characteristics. This classification serves as an international standard for meteorological observation worldwide and forms an essential foundation for weather forecasting and meteorological research.

meteorology clouds World Meteorological Organization International Cloud Atlas weather forecasting atmospheric science

[item.cirrus]
code=Ci
slug=cirrus
name=Cirrus
description=Detached clouds in the form of white, delicate filaments with a silky sheen.
altitudeRange=Above 5,000m
level=High-level cloud

[item.cirrocumulus]
code=Cc
slug=cirrocumulus
name=Cirrocumulus
description=Thin, white patch or layer of cloud composed of very small elements arranged regularly.
altitudeRange=Above 5,000m
level=High-level cloud

[item.cirrostratus]
code=Cs
slug=cirrostratus
name=Cirrostratus
description=Transparent, whitish cloud veil of fibrous or smooth appearance that produces halo phenomena.
altitudeRange=Above 5,000m
level=High-level cloud

[item.altocumulus]
code=Ac
slug=altocumulus
name=Altocumulus
description=White or grey patch, sheet or layer of cloud with rounded masses or rolls.
altitudeRange=2,000m - 7,000m
level=Middle-level cloud

[item.altostratus]
code=As
slug=altostratus
name=Altostratus
description=Greyish or bluish cloud sheet or layer that reveals the Sun as through ground glass.
altitudeRange=2,000m - 7,000m
level=Middle-level cloud

[item.nimbostratus]
code=Ns
slug=nimbostratus
name=Nimbostratus
description=Grey cloud layer that causes continuous rain or snow and completely blocks the Sun.
altitudeRange=2,000m - 7,000m
level=Middle-level cloud

[item.stratocumulus]
code=Sc
slug=stratocumulus
name=Stratocumulus
description=Grey or whitish patch, sheet or layer of cloud with dark parts and rounded masses or rolls.
altitudeRange=Below 2,000m
level=Low-level cloud

[item.stratus]
code=St
slug=stratus
name=Stratus
description=Generally grey cloud layer with a fairly uniform base that may produce drizzle or snow.
altitudeRange=Below 2,000m
level=Low-level cloud

[item.cumulus]
code=Cu
slug=cumulus
name=Cumulus
description=Detached, dense clouds with sharp outlines developing vertically, with tops resembling cauliflower.
altitudeRange=Below 2,000m (base)
level=Low-level cloud

[item.cumulonimbus]
code=Cb
slug=cumulonimbus
name=Cumulonimbus
description=Heavy and dense cloud with considerable vertical extent, with the top flattening into an anvil shape.
altitudeRange=Below 2,000m (base) to tropopause
level=Low-level cloud