Most explanations of supercell thunderstorms focus on factors like moisture and wind shear as the reasons the massive storms form.
Storm chaser and filmmaker Chad Cowan prefers to focus on the big picture and think of them as ways that nature tries to correct an extreme imbalance. All weather can be thought of as the atmosphere’s attempt to reach a state of equilibrium, and when big imbalances build up, big storms are required to sort them out.
In the video above, Cowan shows timelapse footage of several supercell thunderstorms captured in the United States.
Originally published by Cosmos as Majestic supercell thunderstorm timelapse
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
