Cloud shadows

A cumulus cloud is a type of cloud with noticeable vertical development and clearly defined edges. Often described as "puffy" or "cotton-like" in appearance, cumulus clouds may appear alone, in lines, or in clusters. Cumulus clouds are often precursors of other types of clouds, such as cumulonimbus, when influenced by weather factors such as instability, moisture, and temperature gradient. Cumulonimbus clouds may be associated with phenomena such as landspouts, waterspouts and tornadoes. Cumulus means "heap" or "pile" in Latin.

Cumulus clouds, appearing as small- or medium-sized puffy shapes in the sky, often occur in times of fair weather.[4] However, cumulus clouds can grow into cumulonimbus clouds which may produce heavy rain, lightning, severe and strong winds, hail, and even tornadoes.[5] [6] Cumulus congestus clouds, which appear as relatively thin towers, will often grow into Cumulonimbus storm clouds.