Imagine witnessing a cloud formation so rare that it seems like nature’s own cinematic masterpiece. Each spring, the dramatic “Morning Glory” graces a remote area in northern Queensland, captivating onlookers with its surreal presence.
The colossal Morning Glory cloud
Stretching up to 1,000 kilometers in length, this awe-inspiring roll cloud rolls across the horizon. Moving forward at 60 km/h, it hovers just a few hundred meters above the ground. In some instances, up to ten of these parallel clouds traverse the sky, likened to corduroy for giants.
The Morning Glory is classified as a soliton—a solitary wave maintaining its shape and speed, akin to tsunamis. This continuous phenomenon emerges as moist air condenses on the leading edge while evaporating on the trailing edge, creating its characteristic rolling motion.
A natural wonder unique to Queensland
While similar clouds briefly appear in areas like the English Channel, the Morning Glory is predictably visible only over the southern Gulf of Carpentaria. Its occurrence results from specific geographic conditions where converging sea breezes create the perfect stage for this atmospheric marvel.
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Locals in Burketown, the self-declared capital of the Morning Glory, have their own weather signs. Frosted fridges and curling café table corners signal the impending arrival of this cloud.
Surfing the skies
In 1989, glider pilots Russell White and Rob Thompson pioneered the wild adventure of riding the Morning Glory’s thermals. Since then, gliders have been drawn to Burketown each spring. Among them, hang-glider Jonny Durand once surfed the cloud for 68 kilometers, capturing the thrilling feat on camera.
Catching a glimpse
The Morning Glory season peaks from late September to early November. For the best views, visit Burketown and its bustling airstrip filled with light aircraft each October. Or stand facing the Gulf at dawn and watch the spectacle unfold.
For breathtaking atmospheric phenomena beyond clouds, explore Unworldly Sculptures In The Foggy Morning Light by a talented photographer.
Source: mossandfog.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Morning Glory cloud?
The Morning Glory is a rare cloud formation that appears as a dramatic roll cloud stretching up to 1,000 kilometers in length and moves at 60 km/h across the horizon just a few hundred meters above the ground.
Where can you see the Morning Glory cloud?
The Morning Glory cloud is uniquely visible over the southern Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Queensland.
When is the best time to see the Morning Glory?
The peak season for viewing the Morning Glory cloud is from late September to early November, with the best views available in Burketown, particularly during October.