Thunderstorms and Thermals

Sailplane Tow. Boulder, Colorado, 2016

Sailplanes definitely seek the latter and avoid the former!

Lately, they have been out and about, sniffing the sky with their variometers and altimeters for those Otis elevator, upward-bound, heat bubbles–at least until the afternoon cumulus over-development would send them swooshing for the safety of the hangar.

For the photographer, these warm days with fairly predictable afternoon thunderstorms often give way to some spectacular early evening light.

So, even though there might be lightning bolts splitting a wet, black sky at 5p.m., don’t despair! After all, sunset is much, much later this time of year. Instead, pack up the camera, and set out through the meteorological chaos for a likely landscape setting–maybe a pond or lake, or a viewpoint, a farm, a local park or landmark, or an open field with gnarly trees, whatever strikes your fancy. Then wait.

As Thor marches off to wreak havoc further east, or dissipates even, you could have some exceptional lighting with which to work. (Maybe even a double rainbow!!! Check the link for a hilarious one-minute video!)

Now all I have to do is listen to my own advice and get out there myself–I have missed a couple of great opportunities over the past few days!