Here in Boise we have inversions pretty regularly every winter.
From Wikipedia:
"How and why inversions occur:
Under certain conditions, the normal vertical temperature gradient is inverted such that the air is colder near the surface of the Earth. This can occur when, for example, a warmer, less dense air mass moves over a cooler, denser air mass."
"Consequences of a thermal inversion:
With the ceasing of convection, which is normally present in the atmosphere, a number of phenomena are associated with a temperature inversion. The air becomes stiller, hence the air becomes murky because dust and pollutants are no longer lifted from the surface."
This can become a problem in cities where many pollutants exist. Inversion effects occur frequently in big cities such as Mumbai, India; Los Angeles, California; Mexico City ; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Santiago, Chile; and Tehran, Iran, but even also in smaller cities like Oslo, Norway and Salt Lake City, Utah, Boise, Idaho which is closely surrounded by hills and mountains that together with the inversion effect bottle-caps the air in the city. During a severe inversion, trapped air pollutants form a brownish haze that can cause respiratory problems. "
Translation: The sky is gray and overcast, smoggy, and colder than normal temperatures. It's depressing. The sun is gone for a week or more at a time. It doesn't help to know that it is shining brightly just above us.
I found this video on Youtube:
Now for some better news:
My French cousin François is now a grandfather (Grand-père) for the first time. Baby and mother are doing well.
I knitted a hat for the new arrival and it made it to France just in time. I used a pattern called Umbilical Cord hat. You can see why.
And here, just arrived by email is a pic of the newest addition to the David family - (drumroll)........presenting Baby Alays. What a sweetie.
We've been seeing lots of these guys in the trees around the house.
They're always considered to be the first sign of spring, but I'm not sure the ones in Boise ever go anywhere. Check out American Robin.
Kim and I also were able to watch a pair of woodpeckers and their baby on the neighbor's roof for a while. Must have been some tasty insects over there.
We're looking forward to spring, along with everyone else.
Here's a photo from last year to remind us (me) of what is promised to relieve our eyes and souls.
