Cirrus floccus

Cirrus floccus is a type of cirrus cloud. The name cirrus floccus is derived from Latin, meaning "a lock of wool".^[1] Cirrus floccus occurs as small tufts of cloud, usually with a ragged base. The cloud can have virga falling from it, but the precipitation does not reach the ground.^[2] The individual tufts are usually isolated from each other.^[3] At formation, the cirrus floccus clouds are bright white and can be mistaken for altocumulus clouds; however, after a few minutes, the brightness begins to fade, indicating they are made up of pure ice, and are therefore at a higher level.^[4]

Cirrus floccus
Cirrus floccus clouds
Abbreviation	Ci flo
Symbol
Genus	Cirrus (curl)
Species	floccus (lock of wool)
Altitude	Above 5,000 m (Above 16,500 ft)
Classification	Family A (High-level)
Appearance	small tufts
Precipitation	None

See also

• List of cloud types