Stratus (St)


Source: http://www.stormeyes.org/tornado/SkyPix/s_oregon.htm

Level: Below 6,500 ft.

Composition: Water

Typical Conditions: Stable atmosphere, but dreary, cloudy weather (they typically cover the entire sky). Does not produce significant precipitation, but drizzle may result if the cloud base is low enough. Sometimes this cloud is the result of a morning fog lifting above ground level.

Appearance: Uniform, low layer of gray clouds completely blocking the sun. Because of the low height above ground level, oftentimes resembles a "fog that doesn't reach the ground" and may obscure the upper portion of skyscrapers, mountains, etc.