American Meteorological Society Certification (AMS) Practice

Cumulonimbus clouds are typically associated with precipitation. These clouds are characterized by their towering structure and dense, vertical growth, which can occur in response to significant atmospheric instability. They can produce heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes due to their extensive vertical development, which allows for the strong updrafts necessary to generate precipitation.

While stratus clouds can also lead to precipitation, the amount and intensity are generally much less than those associated with cumulonimbus clouds. Altocumulus clouds may produce light precipitation, but they are more commonly a sign of fair weather. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are high-altitude clouds that are thin and wispy, typically indicating that good weather is expected, and they do not lead to precipitation. Therefore, cumulonimbus clouds are the most reliable indicator for significant precipitation events.