We’re enjoying beautiful autumn weather in Arizona; warm (not hot), dry and to the delight of photographers, exhibiting some very interesting cloud patterns. I couldn’t overlook the amazing skies and have taken the opportunity to capture some interesting photographs.
This first image captures altocumulus clouds, mid level clouds that are made of water droplets and appear as gray puffy masses. They usually form in groups at altitudes ranging from 6,500-20,000 ft (1,980-6,000 m).
This next picture was taken from our backyard, a beautiful display of high altitude, cirrus clouds. Cirrus clouds are generally characterized by thin, wispy strands, taking their name from the Latin word cirrus, meaning a ringlet or curling lock of hair. Typically found at heights greater than 20,000 feet (6,000 meters), cirrus clouds are composed of ice crystals that originate from the freezing of supercooled water droplets.
More cirrus clouds, these taken in the course of a hike in the nearby, Cave Creek Regional Park on Sunday.
And lastly, another appealing pattern of cirrus clouds, photographed at sunrise from our front yard.
Looks so peaceful and quiet…I can hear Joni Mitchell’s version of “Clouds” A sunrise and a sunset…doesn’t get much better. Beautiful. Thanks Peter!
Helen
You do do beautiful work!