Now that we are in June, the typical season for lenticular clouds has come to an end. From October through May (and May, just barely in most years) Mount Shasta has a tendency to create spectacular cloud formations in its vicinity. These clouds, created by a combination of flutuating air currents and temperatures, typically manifest when weather patterns are shifting. The onset of the shoulder seasons and the turbulence of winter bring the necessary conditions for the creation of the clouds. Late spring, summer and early fall all have warmer temperatures and more stable weather and, consequently, have far fewer lenticular manifestations (though they can always appear unexpectedly!)
The lenticular season of 2019/2020 was a good one. As always, there were a few really spectacular events. Although my personal favorite occurred in October (see the lead image) one lenticular event that took place in February drew national attention. Oddly enough, there were times this past season when I felt like there had not been many notable cloud formations but, looking back at the gallery, it is obvious that this was indeed an epic lenticular season! May the next one be so as well!
Click to enlarge:
