There are many ways that an ecosystem can lose it's equilibrium or balance.
A few potential causes can be, the introduction of a new species, the sudden death of some species, and natural hazards (weather related or seismic changes). Lastly, one of the biggest causes are man-made hazards.
Altocumulus and altostratus clouds usually bring cold, windy conditions. If you come across this type of weather make shure you are protected from drizzle or light snow.