
Cirrostratus Clouds
Thin High Transparent Layers ☁️
Altitude
20,000 - 40,000 feet
Appearance
Thin, transparent white sheets
Optical Effect
Creates halos around sun/moon
What Are Cirrostratus Clouds?
Cirrostratus clouds are thin, transparent, sheet-like layers of ice crystals at high altitudes. They create distinctive halos around the sun or moon and cover the entire sky with a uniform appearance. These clouds often precede warm fronts and indicate that precipitation may begin within 12-24 hours.
Halo Phenomenon & Weather Signs
Optical Features
- • 22° halos around sun/moon
- • Transparent sheet appearance
- • No shadow from clouds
- • Sun/moon easily visible
Weather Indication
- • Often precedes warm fronts
- • Precipitation likely within 24h
- • Temperature will rise
- • Wind may increase