Mt Whitney, Image 5

[GB1]

Straight up shot, but I think it shows things well. Too bad I didn't capture the lightning that was also shooting down from it.

A little background ... this and several other storm clouds were quickly approaching Whitney, but by hurrying some of us were still able to reach the summit and start our way down before it reached us. Still dangerous though - lightning can strike diagonally, and two friends who lagged back were still trying to make the summit even though lightning was now hitting other parts of the mountain. One of them took the chance and continued, while the other and I took cover the best we could from the lightning and hail ... we found rocks to duck under, though I couldn't really fit under my rock, so just turned my back to the hail and let it bounce off my rainjacket while I crouched down. Lightning never did strike the top... good thing for that one friend who continued, for he took cover inside the building at the top which they warn you never to get inside during a lightning storm (people have been zapped while inside it).

[armando_m]

Before I read your description I was going to ask if the rain catche you .... Impressive shot!

[GB1]

Thanks Armando. It's fun to photograph weather.

It rained harder on the way down, but at that point you don't care because you're almost finished. The backpackers walking UP in the rain looked pretty miserable though

GB