[Part 3 of 3] A well-developed “steam devil” exhibits a smooth cloud tube mostly defining the vortex. I say “mostly” because, as with actual tornadoes, the rotation likely extends outside the visible vortex, which just represents air cooled and moistened enough by lower pressure to condense before surrounding air. Dust devils form similarly, but over hot land surfaces relative to air above. Fortunately, we have areas of water to witness these too, when the temperature drops off sharply enough from liquid to air. Photographing them works best in sunlight, with a dark background (either distant dark clouds or a forested shoreline like this) to bring out the contrast best. Be set up firmly and well-focused, because these vortices can come and go in just a few seconds. [Back to Part 1]
2 WSW Little Axe OK (15 Jan 24) Looking SE
25.2286, -97.2472