Lenticular Clouds are often mistaken for UFOs
Lenticular clouds, technically known as altocumulus standing lenticulars, are stationary lens-shaped
clouds that form at high altitudes, normally aligned at right-angles to the wind direction.
These clouds are formed by so-called "mountain waves" of air created by strong winds forced
over high mountains. Then they hang over the mountains like alien "mother ships"...
Mount Rainier in Washington produces some of the most spectacular lenticulars.
They have been mistaken for UFOs (or "visual cover" for UFOs) because these
clouds have a characteristic lens appearance and smooth saucer-like shape.
Wave Clouds…
Wave clouds are formed when there are two parallel layers of air that are usually moving
at different speeds and in opposite directions. The upper layer of air usually moves faster
than the lower layer because there is less friction. Below is the famous photo of such special
clouds over Mount Shasta , titled "Catch the wave".
The Witch's Brew of Bizarre Clouds…
In the following photos (which are probably the weirdest of all weather phenomena pictures),
taken from the top of local TV broadcasting tower (source: KSNTV) both the lenticular and
mammatus clouds combine in one crazy rippled texture, hanging all over the city.
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