WEATHER experts at the University of Reading have confirmed the existence of a new brand of cloud formations.

The asperitas cloud is among a group of newly-discovered clouds to be recognised by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) this week.

Recognition of the new cloud formation comes after a 10-year campaign, led by Gavin Pretor-Pinney, a visiting fellow at the university.

He is the author of The Cloudspotter’s Guide and founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society.

Mr Pretor-Pinney said: “Asperitas was first identified with the help of citizen science, enabled by modern technology.

“When Cloud Appreciation Society members send us photographs of dramatic skies from around the world, it is possible to spot patterns.

“This is how the proposal for a new classification came about, and we are delighted the WMO has chosen to include it in their definitive reference work for cloud classification.”

A team of scientists led by Professor Giles Harrison, from the Meteorology department, analysed photos sent in by members of the public to better understand the origin of the unusual formation.

Their findings are shortly due to be published in the Royal Meteorological Society journal, Weather.

Professor Harrison said: “We have shown that the characteristic roughened, wave-like appearance of asperitas probably arises from local sources of atmospheric waves, such as weather fronts and thunderclouds.

“Being able to read the sky is a key part of meteorological education and can warn aviators and others of potentially hazardous weather. Asperitas is now a cloud to watch out for too.”