| Fractus cloud | |
|---|---|
 Stratus fractus silvagenitus clouds over the Považský Inovec mountains | |
| Abbreviation | Cu fr., St fr., Frnb |
| Genus | Cumulus or stratus |
| Species | Fractus (broken) |
| Altitude | Below 1,500 m (5,000 ft) |
| Classification | Family C (Low-level) |
| Appearance | irregular, ragged |
| Precipitation | No, but may accompany precipitation clouds |
Fractus clouds, also called fractostratus or fractocumulus,[1] are small, ragged cloud fragments that are usually found under an ambient cloud base. They form or have broken off from a larger cloud, and are generally sheared by strong winds, giving them a jagged, shredded appearance. Fractus have irregular patterns, appearing much like torn pieces of cotton candy. They change constantly, often forming and dissipating rapidly. They do not have clearly defined bases. Sometimes they are persistent and form very near the surface. Common kinds include scud and cloud tags.[2]
- ^ "Appendix 3: History of cloud nomenclature". World Meteorological Organization.
- ^ Glickman, Todd S. (June 2000). Glossary of Meteorology. Boston: American Meteorological Society.