Starkly alluring, this steam-burned and denuded landscape contrasts starkly with the leaden storm clouds in the background, reminding us all that a real place in America isn’t far removed in condition from the brutally inhospitable origins of our planet, billions of years before. Someday this entire scene, and unseen parts for miles around, all will blow skyward in an incredible series of eruptions, the likes of which the eyes of mankind haven’t witnessed. Some of the material in this very shot will be lofted as particles drifting down onto whatever is left of cities and towns all over central and eastern North America. This is not hyperbole, but inescapable geological and meteorological destiny that we ought wish not to experience in our lifetimes.
Yellowstone National Park WY (15 Sep 13) Looking NE
44.7281, -110.7028