Which cloud types indicate convective turbulence?

• A. Towering cumulus clouds
• B. Stratus
• C. Altocumulus
• D. Nimbostratus

Answer: (A)

Convective turbulence comes from vigorous vertical air motions created by convection. When you see towering cumulus clouds, you know the air is rising strongly with deep, active updrafts. That kind of vertical development signals active convection, which produces gusty, uneven air and possible downdrafts—classic convective turbulence for a glider pilot to anticipate.

Stratus clouds sit in a relatively flat, stable layer with little vertical motion, so they don’t indicate convection-driven turbulence. Altocumulus can show some instability in the mid level, but they don’t consistently signal strong convective activity. Nimbostratus are low, widespread rain clouds associated with broad, stratified lift and smoother air overall, not the intense vertical motions that create convective turbulence.