Mid-Level Clouds

We now move our discussion of clouds from the low-level clouds to mid-level clouds. Like low-level clouds, mid-level clouds can be broken down into cumulus and stratus varieties. Altostratus clouds, however, are so boring to photograph that I have not included any pictures here. Altocumulus clouds are distinguished from their counterparts by their apparent size. An individual element with an altocumulus field will appear to be about the size of one's thumb. Altocumulus clouds form some of the most beautiful patterns in the world.
The two pictures above are good examples. The first picture is of what I call a "streak." This pattern of altocumulus clouds formed during a beautiful summer day here in the Central Plains. The unusual aspect of this formation is that it was alone in the sky. The second picture is among my favorite cloud patterns. Since the clouds form a pattern like the scales of a fish, it is often called a mackerel sky. Sometimes this pattern will stretch from horizon to horizon, as it did on the autumn day when I took the picture. This fascinating patterns attests to the order of the Creator of the world.