Strange air formation

[Stofdonkie]

 

Early morning in the Karoo. The cold caused thermoclines (?) which formed some vapour lines. I think. 

[tok-tokkie]

I don't know what they are called.  Googled Thermocline 7 they seem to be in water only & are layers of different temperature water.
Very interesting photo.  Looks like turbulance caused by the koppies with the wind blowing from left to right.  But why is the vapour (mist/cloud) in distinct layers?

[Ratel]

It is called a "mountain wave" (made visible here by the cloud). The wind blows across the high ground gets lifted up and then drops down the other side. Could really mess up your day if you fly your pappa charlie in that area.

the "thermocline" you refer to is called a temperature inversion, don't appear to be the case here.

[Stofdonkie]

Why the clear distinction between vapour in some lines and not in others? Must be some sort of temp differential?

 

[Sprocketbek]

It must have been an amazing sight, great pic Stofdonkie 

Looks like those pics taken in wind tunnels by aerodynamics boffins.

I would guess it was a steady light wind resulting in laminar flow (as opposed to turbulent flow).

[ChrisL - DUSTRIDERS]

Great pic Sdonkie. Where was it taken?

[Mark Hardy]

wow that is tunning 

great photo

[EssBee]

aMAZing!!!! Well done!! Should send that in to one of those outdoor mag photo competitions.