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Montana Supercell

This incredible supercell formed as soon as this thunderstorm crossed the Rocky mountains and moved over the Great Plains in Montana.

Seeing the difference the sudden updraft makes to rotation in a storm like this as soon as it reaches the warmer air is pretty incredible. To stand and observe a storm of this magnitude moving towards you at 50mph is a very humbling experience, the warm air being sucked into the storm is incredibly strong and makes photography a little challenging at times! You knew when the supercell was getting too close as you would suddenly find yourself in the outflow with the wind completely changing direction instantly. Every little while you had to pack up quick knowing that the hail core carrying golf-tennis ball size hailstones was just moments away!

After nightfall this storm went on to produce a tornado near the town of Great Falls.

 

I have always wanted to witness storms like this on the Plains and to get the chance to chase them like this with a very knowledgable guide was just amazing. Looking forward to next year already!

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Uploaded on June 20, 2012
Taken on June 1, 2012