What is happening in these clouds?

[Frankie_82]

Hi,
I took these shots over a month ago and came across them again today. I noticed some strange formations within the clouds and am interested to know if anyone could tell me what is actually happening here.

I took the photos out the window and then rushed outside to see if I could see anything else. I didn't see anything else interesting in the clouds, but after about 10 minutes it got extremely gusty and then after another 10 minutes, the rain came on quite heavily.

Anyway here are the photos, please let me know of you have any ideas as to what was hapening.
Cheers

[brianb]

I think it's just pannus (scud) - modified by wind over uneven ground forming lenticular shapes in a variety of cloud which is usually rather ill formed.

[martinastro]

You mentioned the winds picking up and the rain after this so I would say these clouds are outflow from a weak gust front associated with a shower, storm, or frontal system. The mid level location backs up the theory. Not sure on the exact species though, pannus, stratus..ahead of the rain.

[Frankie_82]

Thanks for the replies Brian and Martin.
I didn't know what to make of them when I saw them. I'll have to do some study on these terms, but it good to get that insight.
Cheers