Stratus clouds are the clouds you see on a mostly overcast day and are not tall. They are more of a blanket of the sky. Nimbostratus are the ones you’ll see when it’s raining and overcast.

Nimbostratus: Dark gray cloud layer diffused by falling rain or snow. It is thick enough to blot out the sun. Other low, ragged clouds often occur beneath this cloud and sometimes merge with its base.

If there’s enough moisture and lift, stratus clouds can create rain or snow. These are nimbostratus. How mountains can create their own clouds. Advertisement. Article continues below this ad.

The Latin names of winter clouds mostly contain the word, stratus, meaning "layer." Names like altostratus, nimbostratus and just plain stratus will layer up to hide the sun more days than not ...

Because stratus clouds form at such a low altitude (typically below 2,000 ft, but can form as high as 4,000 ft), the droplets within the clouds remain in liquid form.

Usually when stratus clouds are present, ... Nimbostratus. Joshua Franson. Produces light precipitation (such as drizzle) 0 ft to 23,000 ft aloft (can be near to the surface) Stratus.

Stratus clouds typically form in the lower atmosphere, while cirrus clouds develop at higher altitudes. Posted 8:47 p.m. Apr 24 ...