These are mammatus clouds. They form when pools of cooler air descend into slightly warmer air that’s rising. They form in many places but are very commonly found on the underside of the anvil of very large thunderstorms (they can also be found under many other kinds of clouds at many altitudes). They’re not associated with a good predictor of severe weather but you might see them if you’re getting strong storms.
These are also favorites of storm chasers and photographers everywhere. If you search the internet, you’ll find some amazing examples.
Edit: clarification
Edit 2: I do atmospheric science so if anyone has any questions about clouds, weather, or the atmosphere feel free to ask them!
Edit 3: my specialty is in atmospheric chemistry for those of you whomst were curious. Also, you all have so many awesome questions! Keep ‘em up!
manescaped on March 19th, 2021 at 12:07 UTC »
Mammatus: boob clouds
radioedittakeone on March 19th, 2021 at 12:26 UTC »
It looks like cotton balls. I love it! Great pic.
crazydr13 on March 19th, 2021 at 12:26 UTC »
These are mammatus clouds. They form when pools of cooler air descend into slightly warmer air that’s rising. They form in many places but are very commonly found on the underside of the anvil of very large thunderstorms (they can also be found under many other kinds of clouds at many altitudes). They’re not associated with a good predictor of severe weather but you might see them if you’re getting strong storms.
These are also favorites of storm chasers and photographers everywhere. If you search the internet, you’ll find some amazing examples.
Edit: clarification
Edit 2: I do atmospheric science so if anyone has any questions about clouds, weather, or the atmosphere feel free to ask them!
Edit 3: my specialty is in atmospheric chemistry for those of you whomst were curious. Also, you all have so many awesome questions! Keep ‘em up!