Distant rainstorm with rain shafts

Rain is falling on the Rio Grande Valley, as viewed from the Pajarito Plateau. In the southwestern U.S., where storms can be very localized, and sight distances are great, it is common to watch rain (or snow) falling some distance away. Where, as here, individual "columns" of rain are seen, they are known as "rain shafts" or "rain curtains."

The dark of heavy storm clouds contrasts with mesas lit by sun.

In the right midground, some spots in the Rio Grande valley are lit by crepuscular rays finding their way through holes in the clouds.

Sangre de Christo Mountains in the background are largely obscured by the dark storm clouds.