Several years ago I was photographing northern pygmy owls in the Missoula, Montana, area. After a long day sitting in the blind, I made my way back to my camper for the evening. It was a very hot day, much like the ones we’re currently experiencing. A severe lightning storm developed, striking the peaks of the Mission Mountains. In this image, you can see a single tree that started on fire during the storm. Thankfully a drenching rain followed, and the fire was extinguished without human intervention. I hope you enjoy this image of nature at its grandest.
Fires like this are a great reminder of the issues we’re facing with a warming climate. The western US is experiencing record drought. We’re also seeing fires like never before in the Arctic and Alaska.
Don't forget about my work documenting the changes going on in the Arctic through my ongoing endeavor, the Arctic Documentary Project with Polar Bears International. If you want to help us make a difference in our educational outreach efforts, stop by and help with a tax deductible DONATION at the Arctic Documentary Project.