Most rainfall originates from which types of clouds?

Most rainfall originates from cumulonimbus and nimbostratus clouds due to their ability to produce significant precipitation. Cumulonimbus clouds are towering vertical clouds associated with thunderstorms and severe weather, capable of releasing heavy rain, hail, and even tornadoes. They have strong updrafts that can support the development of large water droplets, leading to intense rainfall when precipitation occurs.

Nimbostratus clouds are thick, gray clouds that cover the sky and bring steady, continuous rain or snow. Unlike cumulus clouds, which can be more localized and swiftly passing, nimbostratus clouds typically indicate a more prolonged precipitation event, often leading to steady rainfall over extended periods.

Other options include cloud types that either do not produce significant rainfall or are less effective at releasing moisture. Stratus and stratocumulus clouds tend to bring light precipitation or drizzle rather than substantial rainfall. Cirrus clouds are high-altitude clouds that are thin and feathery; they are not associated with significant precipitation. Nimbostratus and altostratus are better candidates for rain, but cumulonimbus clouds are particularly known for heavy downpours, making the combination of cumulonimbus and nimbostratus the most effective producers of rain.