The Grand Canyon is already famous for its natural and picturesque beauty. Last week, however, a rare weather occurrence created spectacular views in the already stunning landmark. This amazing event took place in the morning hours last Thursday, Dec. 11 and was captured on video from a point in the canyon called Mather Point. The past week has been unusual for the Southwest, with winter rains bringing fog and other unexpected occurrences to the area.
What Caused it?
This rare, but not unprecedented weather occurrence is referred to by meteorologists as a temperature inversion. This takes place when damp, cool air becomes stuck under a layer of warm air. It is caused by air becoming warmer rather than cooler as it increases in altitude. The warmer air forced the clouds down into the depths of the canyon, creating an almost wave like effect inside the canyon. It seems as though the clear skies from the night before coupled with the ground losing heat at a rapid rate allowed the cold mass to settle in the depths of the ravine. This eventually led to the clouds becoming trapped inside for about 15 minutes, before clearing out.
A rare treat for the eyes
This temperature inversion is said to happen very rarely. Rangers at the park said that it happens only once every several years. The visual treat is said to be something those park rangers wait for years to see. Although this event happens rarely, the canyon experienced one last year. The cloud inversion took place on Dec. 13 of last year, almost exactly a year to the day. It was reported that the clouds were about 4,000 feet from the base of the canyon.
Those lucky few tourists who had the chance to view this spectacular sight, will have a Grand Canyon story unlike any other. If you are interested in taking Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas, call GC Flight at (800) 871-1030 today.