Supercells are one of the four major types of storm. These long-lasting thunderstorms are rare, and to say they pack a punch is an understatement. They often produce severe weather such as violent winds, hail and tornadoes. A characteristic feature of supercells is the presence of a mesocyclone, which is a deep rotating updraft. Although tornadoes are not inevitable with this type of storm, it is within this mesocyclone that they form and drop to the ground. An absolutely incredible time-lapse video of a supercell thunderstorm forming went viral last week (watch it here)

Here’s another absolutely jaw-dropping time-lapse video of a supercell over Kansas, taken by Stephen Locke: