What is a Supercell? A simple definition for a supercell would be: a
thunderstorm with a deep persistent rotating updraft (mesocyclone). This rotation of the
storm is the major difference between supercells and multicell storms. Supercells are
rare, but are responsible for most severe weather events - especially tornadoes. Very
large hail and damaging straight-line winds are also created by supercells. Supercells
tend to travel to the right of the main steering winds which chasers call right movers.
Chasers may also talk of HP storms(high precipitation) and LP storms(Low Precipitation)
which are varieties of storms, but whether or not they qualify as a supercell is dependent
on them having this deep persistent rotating updraft.
For more info see our Weather Glossary.
Strongly rotating storm Near Scotts Bluff Nebraska. Photo by Tornado Tim
Simply a
most incredible supercell seen here in South Dakota.
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