Cumulus castellanus (from Latin castellanus, castle) is an unofficial name of a species of cumulus cloud that is distinctive because it displays multiple towers arising from its top, indicating significant vertical air movement. It is a misnomer for cumulus congestus and correspondingly can be an indicator of forthcoming showers and thunderstorms. The World Meteorological Organization and the American Meteorological Society do not recognize cumulus castellanus as a distinct species, but instead classify all towering cumulus clouds as Cumulus congestus.[1]
| Cumulus castellanus | |
|---|---|
 Cumulus castellanus low on the horizon | |
| Appearance | Flat on the bottom, though has multiple "towers" on top |
| Precipitation | Usually, but not always |
References edit
- ^ International Cloud Atlas
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