Cumulonimbus (CB) clouds are typically how thick?

Cumulonimbus clouds, commonly associated with thunderstorms and severe weather, can extend vertically to significant altitudes. They are known for their great thickness, which typically ranges from about 20,000 feet to over 40,000 feet. This substantial vertical extent is one of the defining characteristics of these clouds, allowing them to develop strong updrafts and associated phenomena such as turbulence, hail, and lightning.

The thickness of cumulonimbus clouds is critical to understanding their potential impact on aviation and weather conditions. They can reach heights well into the troposphere, and in some cases, they can even penetrate into the stratosphere, indicating their power and intensity. The ability of these clouds to rise to such heights is a key factor in the formation of severe weather.

In contrast, other options suggest thickness ranges that are below the typical extent observed in cumulonimbus clouds, which misrepresents their actual structure and potential weather implications. Understanding this thickness is vital for pilots and meteorologists in assessing weather conditions during flight planning and operations.