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These web pages illustrate and explain the classification
of cloud types, so that observers are able to report the types
of cloud present.
Classification is based on ten main groups of clouds, which
are divided into low, medium and high levels depending on
the part of the atmosphere in which they are usually found.
A code figure designated CL, CM or CH
is used to describe the clouds of each level. When there is
more than one type of cloud present at any level, an order
of priority has been arranged by the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO) to determine which code figures should
be used.
A separate section is devoted to the clouds at each level.
A pictorial guide at the beginning of each section shows the
priority of coding. To find the correct code figure for any
cloud level, follow the relevant pictorial guide.
In some meteorological messages, clouds are identified according
to the ten main groups. A code figure, designated C, is used.
All references to C code figures are shown as Cn or C=n (e.g.
C9 or C=9).
Worldwide, the height of cloud base is still reported in
feet (ft).
Acknowledgement
The Met Office is indebted to the photographers, whose names
appear against the individual photographs, for permission
to reproduce their work on these web pages.
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