Altostratus
Altostratus is a cloud belonging to a class characterized by a generally uniform gray sheet or layer, lighter in color than nimbostratus and darker than cirrostratus. Compare also with lower altitude stratus clouds.
| Altostratus | |
| Where found: | 2,000-5,000 m |
| Associated Weather: | Wide areas of rain and snow. |
Altostratus is caused by a large air mass that is lifted then condensed, usually by an incoming frontal system.
Altostratus clouds are potentially dangerous, because they can cause ice accretion on aircraft.