Streamlined lenticular clouds are created by turbulence or strong upward air movement, associated with lee wave formation.  Photographer: Stan Celestian

Once formed, they simply ride the crest of updrafts but often appear stationary in the sky, even though noticeable surface winds may be present. This was the case on the day the above photo was taken. The most probable cause of the turbulence was a deflection of air up and over the White Tank Mountains (orgraphic influence), just north and west of the clouds’ position.



via epod