What are the types of clouds that appear first when a tropical cyclone is approaching?

1 answer

When a tropical cyclone is approaching, the first types of clouds that typically appear are cirrus clouds. These high-altitude, wispy clouds often signify that a storm system is moving in. As the system develops further, cumulus clouds may start to form, followed by towering cumulonimbus clouds as the cyclone intensifies. These cumulonimbus clouds are associated with heavy rain, thunderstorms, and severe weather conditions characteristic of a tropical cyclone. As the storm approaches, you may also see an increase in cloud cover and the formation of spiral bands typical of tropical cyclones.