The cloud height (or the height of the cloud) is the distance between the cloud base and the cloud top. It is traditionally expressed either in m or as a pressure difference in hectopascal (hPa, equivalent to millibar). Sometimes, the expression cloud height is used instead of cloud base; hopefully the context may help clarify whether the intent is to designate the elevation or the size of the cloud.
Cloud height is related to the intensity of precipitation generated by a cloud: deeper clouds tend to produce more intense rainfall. For instance, cumulonimbus clouds can develop vertically through a substantial part of the troposphere and often result in thunderstorms with lightning and heavy showers.
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See also
References
- Huschke, Ralph E. (1959) Glossary of Meteorology, American Meteorological Society, Boston, Second printing-1970.