What type of clouds are typically associated with thunderstorms?

Cumulonimbus clouds are the type of clouds most commonly associated with thunderstorms. These clouds are characterized by their towering vertical structure and can extend high into the atmosphere, often reaching the stratosphere. They are capable of producing severe weather phenomena, including heavy rain, lightning, hail, and even tornadoes. The formation of cumulonimbus clouds is associated with strong updrafts of warm, moist air which cools and condenses into the cloud, leading to the development of the storm.

In contrast, other cloud types such as cumulus, stratus, and nimbostratus do not typically produce thunderstorms. Cumulus clouds are generally fair-weather clouds, while stratus clouds are known for overcast conditions without significant precipitation. Nimbostratus clouds can bring steady, continuous rain but lack the severe weather characteristics and vertical development associated with thunderstorms. Therefore, cumulonimbus clouds are uniquely linked to the intense weather patterns and dynamics of thunderstorms.