Steens Mountain Lenticular Cloud

With the approach of winters first major storm, a lenticular cloud begins to form off Steens Mountain’s east escarpment. Not long after this photograph was made, the skies turned gray, and a cold west wind began to howl. Next came a soaking rain, and I retreated for the day. That night the wind buffeted the tent and made noise like a freight train as it raced over the top of the aspen grove I sheltered in. The next morning, Steens had become a winter wonderland, with wind blown snow collecting in drifts and tracing the edge of summit cliffs. Once again I am reminded not to leave when harsh weather is predicted.  If you’re in a safe location, its always best to hunker down, and see what spectacle will come to pass.  Steens National Recreation Lands, Southeastern Oregon. Alvord Desert, Harney County, Steens Mountain