This scene encapsulates the irony of the supercell. For all of its striking beauty, it continually threatens grave consequences for those in its path: lightning (including lightning-started fires), severe wind, giant hail, and sometimes tornadoes. This supercell ultimately would produce all of the above. Conscientious storm observers want no human harm, hoping against destruction while tracking and documenting the storm, and while also realizing their own own smallness in its presence and lack of control over its power. Much as wildlife enthusiasts marvel at, study and appreciate predatory large animals, one can be fascinated and impassioned by their nature while advocating that their deadly impacts on people never should be celebrated.
Wellington TX (16 May 17) Looking WSW
34.8478, -100.2288Cryptic Sky
This scene encapsulates the irony of the supercell. For all of its striking beauty, it continually threatens grave consequences for those in its path: lightning (including lightning-started fires), severe wind, giant hail, and sometimes tornadoes. This supercell ultimately would produce all of the above. Conscientious storm observers want no human harm, hoping against destruction while tracking and documenting the storm, and while also realizing their own own smallness in its presence and lack of control over its power. Much as wildlife enthusiasts marvel at, study and appreciate predatory large animals, one can be fascinated and impassioned by their nature while advocating that their deadly impacts on people never should be celebrated.
Wellington TX (16 May 17) Looking WSW
34.8478, -100.2288