These spectacular clouds are called "Altocumulus Lenticularis" and are formed by wind passing at right angles over an obstruction (like a mountain range). When this happens, the air is forced upwards over the obstruction. If the wind speed increases with altitude, waves of rising and sinking air form on the lee side of the obstruction. The tops of these waves are often capped with lenticular clouds like these ones. (December 2005)
Monday, June 05, 2006
Parque Nacionale Los Glaciares, Chile
These spectacular clouds are called "Altocumulus Lenticularis" and are formed by wind passing at right angles over an obstruction (like a mountain range). When this happens, the air is forced upwards over the obstruction. If the wind speed increases with altitude, waves of rising and sinking air form on the lee side of the obstruction. The tops of these waves are often capped with lenticular clouds like these ones. (December 2005)
