Stratus clouds are low, flat, and featureless clouds that typically form in uniform layers, often covering the sky in a thick, gray sheet. These clouds are generally found below 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) and consist mostly of water droplets, although ice crystals can form in colder conditions. Stratus clouds can create a dull, overcast sky, and they usually bring light precipitation, such as drizzle or light rain. Unlike cumulus or cumulonimbus clouds, stratus clouds do not exhibit significant vertical development, which gives them their smooth, featureless appearance. They are commonly associated with stable weather conditions, but their persistence can lead to gloomy, gray days.
