Which one of the following types of cloud is characterized by continuous precipitation?

Nimbostratus clouds are characterized by their ability to produce continuous, steady precipitation in the form of rain, snow, or sleet [1]. These clouds are dark, gray, and uniform, often covering the entire sky and blotting out sunlight [5]. Unlike the intermittent or showery nature of other clouds, nimbostratus is specifically known as a 'rain cloud' that brings long-duration rainfall [4]. In contrast, Cumulonimbus clouds are associated with intense, short-lived thunderstorms, heavy showers, and severe weather like hail or lightning [3]. Cumulus clouds are typically 'fair-weather' clouds formed by convection, appearing fluffy and white. Cirrocumulus are high-level, thin clouds that do not produce precipitation reaching the ground [5]. Therefore, the defining characteristic of continuous and persistent precipitation is uniquely attributed to Nimbostratus [2].

Sources

1. [4] Certificate Physical and Human Geography , GC Leong (Oxford University press 3rd ed.) > Chapter 13: Weather > The Beaufort Wind Scale > p. 124
2. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 24: Hydrological Cycle (Water Cycle) > Types of Clouds > p. 335
3. [2] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 10: Water in the Atmosphere > Nimbus > p. 88
4. [5] https://www.nesdis.noaa.gov/about/k-12-education/atmosphere/types-of-clouds
5. [3] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 25: Thunderstorm > Stage 1: Cumulus Stage > p. 342