Stratus Cloud

Stratus clouds are wide flat sheets that can bring overcast grey skies, drizzle or rain. Stratus are one of the three main cloud types, cumulus and cirrus being the others. All clouds develop from water vapor that cools within rising air. Collecting on cloud seeds, such as dust, water forms into droplets and ice crystals. Clouds appear white since the droplets scatter all wavelengths of sunlight roughly equally. Stratus clouds more often appear grey since they are thicker, blocking the sunlight and reducing the light scattering from the cloud base. The temperature, wind and moisture determine the size, shape and type of clouds. 

Stratus is Latin for flat or layered, the defining feature of this family of clouds. The flat nature of these clouds signifies a stable atmosphere. When you see stratus clouds, you can expect no change in the weather for a while. Stratus clouds and the rain they create are shaped by expansive atmospheric conditions and weather fronts that can spread over hundreds of miles. In contrast, puffy cumulus clouds are a local phenomenon, shaped by unstable air and atmospheric differences over much smaller distances. Whereas cumulus clouds often bring rain showers, stratus clouds typically create drizzle, mist or blanket rain that moves over the land in a vast sweep. 

Cloud names are combined to describe specific types. For example, nimbostratus are thick, dark, rain clouds. Cirrostratus are high, transparent ice crystal clouds.  Stratocumulus are layered with a honeycomb appearance and may create drizzle. When it comes to clouds, there’s a lot to think about. But keep in mind that clouds don’t overthink, they just drift.

Product Size: 8" x 3.5" x 2.5"

Thunderheads are sewn and crafted using recycled fibers that meet Global Recycling Standards. There are no plastic parts, only high-quality soft fabrics and embroidered eyes and details. The attached educational cards are printed from recycled paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. 

Thunderheads meet and surpass all US safety standards. Regular size Thunderheads are appropriate and safe for all ages. Key chain size Thunderheads are only for age 3 and up. 

Hand wash only using a damp cloth and warm water.  Air dry.  We do not recommend cleaning in a washing machine or drying in a drier.  Check all labels upon arrival of purchase. 

From this website, we deliver within the United States.  We ship orders within 1–2 business days once they are received. Please see the link at page bottom for international orders. We're confident that you'll love your Thunderheads purchase, but if you need to make a return for any reason, we accept returns within 14 days of your purchase date. Please note, we only accept items in their original condition with the tags still attached. See the page bottom for further details.