Cloud inversions have been photographed by dozens of lucky walkers in the Lake District this week.
These otherworldly blankets of cloud, also known as temperature inversions, form when it is colder in the valleys than it is at the top of the fells.
While cloud inversions aren’t uncommon in the Lake District, they are difficult to predict and pinpoint, making them rare to spot.
The inversions require several weather variables including high pressure, light winds, specific temperatures and moisture levels to form.
But conditions over the past week have been very good for spotting them.
As a result, dozens of walkers have been able to spot inversions across the national park.
Eddie Meek, of Windermere, said he made a spur of the moment of decision to climb Scafell Pike to try and spot an inversion on Wednesday.
He said: “Last year I had a quadruple heart bypass, but it still doesn’t stop me from living life to the full and capturing awesome scenes like this cloud inversion.
“This was a spur of the moment decision to power up after work to capture something special.
“Once up on the summit of Scafell Pike I stayed until dark! It was breath-taking and so peaceful.”
Samantha Owen, of Sunderland, spotted her first cloud inversion on Blencathra, on Wednesday morning.
She said: “I took the chance and drove down Tuesday night and stayed over at Scales and hiked Blencathra in the morning at 5.30am.
“It was the most incredible morning for me. After two years of trying to see a cloud inversion, I finally got the most unreal views.
“It was magical to say the least. I travel to the Lakes every week and this was the best trip of all.”
Chris Hindmoor, 41, of Dearham, spotted a cloud inversion with his friend Lee while out running from Buttermere along the tops to Scarth Gap.
He has been running for 25 years and said it was an unexpected but very special experience.
Chris said: “When me and my friend Lee Smith set off from home, we couldn’t see the fells for cloud mist, so we were expecting a tough navigating run.
“As we climbed up towards Red Pike, the sun was shining and we were above the clouds.
“We turned around to admire the view and there was the most amazing cloud inversion we’ve ever seen.
“It was very unexpected, but I’m so grateful we were able to see it. I’ve only seen three, but nothing like this one, it was like a big blanket.”
Did you capture any pictures of videos of cloud inversions this week? Send us them and share your story to [email protected]
Read on here to find out more about climbing Scafell Pike.
Taking steps to be prepared and adventure ready can take weight off rescue teams’ shoulders.
Rescue teams across the Lake District are asking people to use their #BeAdventureSmart service.
You can find out more about Adventure Smart and ways to stay safe by clicking here.
