1st August 2024 – Thunderhead

As Astronomers we observe weather conditions regularly and on the 1st August 2024 a stunning time-lapse video was taken by member Honor Wheeler of a Thunderhead.  The video was taken from Dartford.  A thunderhead is a cumulonimbus cloud seen during a thunderstorm.  Towering cumulonimbus clouds, often called thunderclouds, are the only cloud formation capable of generating hail, thunder, and lightning. These dramatic, multi-layered cloud structures extend high into the sky, taking on an ominous, menacing appearance.

Honor used a Canon M6II on a tripod, Rokinon 12mm lens, at f/8, ISO400. A total of 300 photos with a 5 sec interval.

For more information about thunderstorms see:

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/learn-about/weather/types-of-weather/thunder-and-lightning/what-causes-thunder-lightning

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/learn-about/weather/types-of-weather/clouds/low-level-clouds/cumulonimbus#:~:text=What%20are%20cumulonimbus%20clouds%3F,produce%20hail%2C%20thunder%20and%20lightning.

https://www.rmets.org/metmatters/life-cycle-thunderstorm