
Yesterday, a lightning strike from a small rainstorm started a brush fire. The smoke swirled in its almost vertical rise, creating a column visible from the whole valley. Light from the early evening gives it color and clouds cast the shadows. It was an opportunity to work with my 200mm lens.

Not just smoke in the news, but a fire that’s burned over 100 acres and caused the evacuation of 25 homes - so far. Firefighters are waiting for daylight before they even dare approach. Here’s the local news video.
My first thought was tornado! Then I read the text. Great shot, Gary! I used to use a 200mm a lot, once upon a time. Certainly did the trick here.
Wow! Can’t believe it’s a fire. It’s a fantastic photo.