Date: September 3, 2024

Time: 6:06 PM MDT

Location: Target Parking Lot, Boulder, CO

On a warm September evening, I found myself in the Target parking lot, captivated by a breathtaking sunset.

As the light faded, I was struck by the unique appearance of the clouds. They seemed to form a tunnel-like structure, extending from the horizon to the zenith. This phenomenon, known as a crepuscular ray or God ray, is caused by sunlight passing through gaps in clouds or mountains. The result is a series of parallel beams of light that appear to converge at a distant point.

While it’s difficult to identify specific cloud types from a single image, the clouds in this photo likely included:

• Cumulus clouds: These are fluffy, white clouds often seen in fair weather. They can grow into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can bring thunderstorms.
• Cirrus clouds: These are thin, wispy clouds often seen high in the sky. They are usually made of ice crystals and can indicate approaching changes in weather.

The combination of these cloud types, along with the setting sun, created a truly magical scene. It’s a reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found even in the most ordinary places.

Skew T