Which low, flat cloud may cover the sky and produce drizzle?

Which low, flat cloud may cover the sky and produce drizzle?

• A. Cumulus
• B. Stratus
• C. Nimbostratus
• D. Cirrus

Answer: (B)

Stratus clouds are a low, horizontally layered type that can spread out to cover the entire sky in a uniform gray sheet. Their low altitude and flat appearance mean they can blanket the sky, and they commonly bring light precipitation in the form of drizzle rather than heavy rain. This combination of a flat, widespread layer at low height with drizzle is what makes Stratus the best fit. Cirrus are high and wispy, not covering the sky or producing drizzle. Cumulus are fluffy with vertical development and don’t form the flat, broad overcast look. Nimbostratus can also cover the sky and bring precipitation, but they’re typically darker, thicker, and associated with more continuous rain rather than light drizzle.

Stratus clouds are a low, horizontally layered type that can spread out to cover the entire sky in a uniform gray sheet. Their low altitude and flat appearance mean they can blanket the sky, and they commonly bring light precipitation in the form of drizzle rather than heavy rain. This combination of a flat, widespread layer at low height with drizzle is what makes Stratus the best fit. Cirrus are high and wispy, not covering the sky or producing drizzle. Cumulus are fluffy with vertical development and don’t form the flat, broad overcast look. Nimbostratus can also cover the sky and bring precipitation, but they’re typically darker, thicker, and associated with more continuous rain rather than light drizzle.