Cumulonimbus Clouds

Severe Thunderstorm Clouds ⛈️

Altitude

1,000-50,000+ feet

Extends through all cloud levels

Weather

Severe thunderstorms

Most dangerous cloud type

Hazards

Lightning, hail, tornadoes

Extreme weather producer

What Are Cumulonimbus Clouds?

Cumulonimbus clouds are towering, anvil-shaped clouds that produce severe thunderstorms. They are the most powerful and dangerous cloud type, capable of producing lightning, hail, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and even tornadoes. These clouds can extend from near ground level to over 50,000 feet in altitude.

Formation & Characteristics

Formation Process

1. Strong Convection: Intense heating and instability create powerful updrafts.
2. Rapid Growth: Cloud towers vertically at 3,000+ feet per minute.
3. Anvil Formation: Upper-level winds shear the cloud top into an anvil shape.
4. Severe Weather: Strong updrafts and downdrafts create hazardous conditions.

Key Characteristics

✓ Shape: Towering with anvil top
✓ Height: Extends 30,000-50,000+ feet
✓ Color: Very dark at base, white at top
✓ Base: Dark, low, and flat
✓ Updrafts: Extremely strong, visible tower
✓ Precipitation: Heavy rain, hail, wind

⚠️ Severe Weather Hazards

Lightning

Extreme electrical discharge causing fire, injury, and death. Multiple lightning strikes occur within a single storm.

Hail

Ice chunks up to baseball-size or larger. Causes property damage, crop destruction, and injury to people/animals.

Heavy Rain & Flooding

Precipitation rates of 1-10 inches per hour. Causes flash flooding, mudslides, and drowning.

Tornadoes & Wind

Violent rotating vortices and extreme downbursts. Can cause total property destruction.

🛡️ Safety During Cumulonimbus Storms

Immediate Action

• Seek shelter indoors immediately
• Avoid windows
• Stay away from tall objects
• Don't use electrical equipment
• Listen to weather alerts

Preparation

• Have emergency supplies ready
• Know shelter locations
• Monitor weather forecasts
• Have battery-powered radio
• Create family communication plan