Under what condition are the prefixes "nimbo-" or suffix "-nimbus" added to cloud types?

The addition of the prefixes "nimbo-" or the suffix "-nimbus" to cloud types indicates that precipitation is observed or expected from those clouds. This nomenclature comes from Latin, where "nimbus" means rain or cloud. When applied to cloud types, such as "nimbostratus" or "cumulonimbus," it signifies that these clouds are associated with precipitation.

For instance, nimbostratus clouds are thick, gray clouds that cover the sky and bring continuous, steady precipitation. Similarly, cumulonimbus clouds are towering clouds that can produce heavy rain, thunderstorms, and other severe weather phenomena. The presence of these prefixes or suffixes is a critical indicator for meteorologists about the potential for rainfall or other forms of precipitation, making it essential for weather forecasting and analysis.