Large clouds that produce thunderstorms are called which clouds?

• A. Cirrus
• B. Cumulonimbus
• C. Stratus
• D. Cumulus

Answer: (B)

Thunderstorms form from cumulonimbus clouds. These are the tall, dense clouds that arise when warm, moist air rises rapidly in an unstable atmosphere. As the air climbs, water vapor condenses through many layers, releasing latent heat that fuels more vertical growth. The cloud can grow enormous, sometimes reaching high into the atmosphere, and often develops a broad, flat, anvil-shaped top as upper-level winds spread the wisps outward. This type of cloud is directly linked to heavy rain, lightning, thunder, hail, and strong winds.

Cirrus clouds are high, wispy ice-crystal clouds and don’t produce storms themselves. Stratus clouds are flat, layered sheets that bring overcast skies and light precipitation. Cumulus clouds are the puffy, cotton-like clouds of fair weather, though they can grow into the storm-producing cumulonimbus if convection becomes strong.