Lenticular Clouds

Lenticular clouds are smooth, lens-shaped clouds that form when air flows over mountains or ridges, creating standing waves in the atmosphere. For hikers and mountaineers, these distinctive clouds serve as important weather indicators, often signaling strong winds at high elevations and potential incoming weather changes. They typically appear stationary and can stack in layers, helping outdoor enthusiasts assess wind conditions and make informed decisions about route planning and safety in mountainous terrain.