How to recognize Stratus
Stratus is a low sheet with relatively little visible cellular structure. Its base can be uniform or ragged, especially around terrain or precipitation. Fog is essentially a cloud at the surface; Stratus may form when fog lifts or through cooling and mixing near the ground.
Typical level
Low troposphere, from near the surface to about 2 km.
Main texture
Uniform, diffuse, fog-like, or ragged fragments.
Precipitation clue
Drizzle, snow grains, or very light snow may occur.
Model label
St · output index 10
Field clues and lookalikes
- Use terrain and horizon cues to recognize the low base.
- Stratocumulus has more rounded cells, rolls, and tonal relief.
- Nimbostratus is deeper and commonly associated with more widespread precipitation.
- Altostratus is a middle-level sheet and may show a dim solar disc.
Weather context
Stratus often accompanies stable, moist low-level air, but its persistence and local effects depend on terrain, wind, and temperature.
Photography notes
Include landscape or horizon when safe; otherwise a featureless square crop can resemble other grey layers. Maintain shadow detail rather than darkening the sky for drama.