17 Dec 2014 The seasons of the 501
Story and photos
by Linda Henderson
I love the changing seasons of the 501. In Central Arkansas we get to appreciate winter, a little bit of spring, a whole lot of summer and a tiny bit of fall. Another reason I enjoy the changing seasons is the likelihood of getting to observe and photograph weather.
During my years of observing the weather in the 501, I have noted weather blows in from the west and exits to the east. When two or more weather systems merge, clouds form, the temperature changes and rain will occur.
I have found the best time to observe or photograph weather systems is at the leading edge or the back end of a system. The best time of day is just before the sunset or just after sunset. Late afternoon provides more vibrant light that complements the landscape and highlights cloud formations.
Winter in the 501 can produce snow and ice, but most winter days the weather is mild and typically very pleasant. The scenery can be stark, but it is an excellent time to enjoy rock ledges and wide views. Winter provides plenty of opportunities for hiking and adventures in the 501 state parks.
Spring and summer in the 501 can yield the best time for truly grand weather observations. This was the case in Perry County near Bunker Hill. The old schoolhouse at sunset served as perfect background for spectacular clouds.
Springtime storms can also render clouds and wildflowers together. Camp Robinson WMA is an excellent place to capture both because of the wide vistas and planted flower fields. Open spaces of farmland in the 501 also allow viewing of incoming storms.
Rainbows are one of the most exciting weather events of the summer and spring. The colors of a rainbow are so beautiful and brilliant that many times photos cannot do them justice. Rainbows are most likely seen in the late evening when the sun is low, storms have cleared in the west and rainfall or rain clouds are in the east.
During many years, summer is rather uneventful for weather, but every once in while a summer thunderstorm will blow in at just the right time and provide a spectacular light show. Lightning is best photographed at dusk or later and should be photographed only when you can do so safely. A favorite spot to view lightning is my own front porch or from my vehicle.
Fall in the 501 can be an explosion of color. Peak leaf color in the 501 is most likely seen during the first or second week of November. Petit Jean and Woolly Hollow have lots of oaks, hickory, gum and elm trees that burst into dramatic displays of color. Little Rock and Conway have many tree-lined boulevards that display yellow and red hues. Paths, trails or county roads are excellent places to observe fall leaves. Most people enjoy a sunny day for viewing fall foliage, but fall colors will look their best on an overcast, wet, cool day. The sunlight tends to fade out the brilliance of the autumn palette.
The most important way to enjoy the seasons and weather of the 501 is to pack a picnic basket and set out with your family and friends and enjoy our many parks and scenic byways.
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