Towering Cumulus cloud (cumulus congestus)
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Image courtesy of Gary Anthes/UCAR
Cumulus Congestus Clouds
Cumulus clouds can be associated with good or bad weather. Cumulus congestus clouds, also called towering cumulus, are in the last stage of development before becoming cumulonimbus clouds. The tops of cumulus congestus clouds look like cauliflower, and sometimes light rain can fall from them. Once they become cumulonimbus clouds, thunderstorms with rain, hail, thunder and lightning can occur.
Cumulus humilis clouds are smaller and are associated with good weather.
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