The Sea of Clouds | Vaud, Switzerland
Updated: Nov 19, 2022
As seasons change and temperatures drop, there is a beautiful natural formation in the air which occurs, called the Sea of Clouds. This happens in specific air conditions where there is a temperature inversion. Such a phenomenon takes place in valley and mountainous areas, which you can find many of in Switzerland. Resembling the waves in the ocean, such a sight is truly a spectacular and magnificent one!
Which time of the year this happens
Between November and April, you can find this quite frequently in many different areas in Switzerland. Simply hop into a car or the train and head up a mountain to witness this natural national geographic documentary.
Temperature inversion
What does this exactly mean? Normally air temperatures drop as you rise in altitude, which is the normal state. What happens with temperature inversion which creates this beautiful phenomenon, is that clouds form over water (lakes) or valleys, and warmer air finds itself above the cloud formations, hence the word inversion. So, you can admire this beautiful spectacle on a mountain where the temperature is warmer than below, underneath the clouds.
For many years I have observed this wonder and each time its truly magical. The pictures above are taken in an area called "Les Pleiades" located in the French part in Vaud, Switzerland and I can only recommend exploring this area. This is a sight which is so spectacular and breath-taking, it makes you truly appreciate how fascinating nature is. It could be seen as “live tv” to simply watch and observe such a beautiful spectacle of nature. If you ever get the chance to be in a city where you have the sea of clouds, rise above the clouds, find a mountain with a panoramic view and enjoy this revitalizing and soul-fueling site!
We are generation change.
Enjoy! Yours truly,
© Isabel
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