What typically indicates steady precipitation from a cloud type?

Nimbostratus clouds are characterized by their thick, uniform appearance and typically cover the sky in a blanket-like fashion. They produce steady, continuous precipitation that can last for several hours or even days. This cloud type is associated with stable atmospheric conditions, allowing for the gradual accumulation of moisture that leads to consistent rain or snow.

In contrast, clouds like cirrus and cumulus have different characteristics. Cirrus clouds are high-altitude clouds made of ice crystals and typically indicate fair weather or the onset of changing weather patterns, but they do not produce precipitation. Cumulus clouds, which are puffy and white, can develop into larger storm clouds but are often associated with convective processes that cause showery precipitation rather than steady rain. Cirrostratus clouds may indicate the approach of a warm front and can lead to light precipitation or drizzle, but they do not produce the sustained rainfall typical of nimbostratus clouds. Thus, nimbostratus is the correct answer for indicating steady precipitation.