The fractus species of clouds take their name from a Latin for ‘shattered’ or ‘broken’. The term is used when the main cloud types Cumulus or Stratus have a more frayed, fragmented appearance than normal. These Stratus fractus were spotted by Richard C (Member 65,361) across the Skeena River in the Skeena Bank Conservancy, British Columbia, Canada. They formed as humid air drifting inland up the river valley cooled and condensed up the foothills of the coastal mountains. ‘I saw these during my drive to work,’ said Richard, ‘but it was one of the most magical drives I’ve ever experienced.’
Sunday 15th February 2026
February 15, 2026