
Altostratus Clouds
Thin Mid-Level Gray Clouds ☁️
Altitude
6,500 - 20,000 feet
Appearance
Thin gray or blue-gray layers
Sun Visibility
Sun visible through clouds
What Are Altostratus Clouds?
Altostratus clouds are thin, uniform layers of gray or blue-gray clouds that form at mid-altitudes. You can typically see the sun or moon through them as if looking through frosted glass. These clouds often indicate that a weather system is approaching and may produce precipitation within 12-24 hours.
Key Characteristics
Physical Properties
- • Thin, uniform layers
- • Gray or blue-gray color
- • Sun/moon visible through
- • Smooth, featureless appearance
Weather Significance
- • Often precedes warm fronts
- • Precipitation may develop
- • Indicates atmospheric stability
- • Can last for many hours