Storm Clouds Ripple and Writhe at Sunset in This Incredible Timelapse

Just plain stunning. Storm chaser Mike Olbinski has made his mark in the world of photography with some pretty incredible timelapses, but this short timelapse of a storm in North Dakota takes the jaw-dropping cake.

The storm, captured just 4 days ago, put together a glorious demonstration of the rare undulating type of cloud called Asperitas clouds, formerly known as Undulatus Asperatus. These beautiful (and a little terrifying) clouds ripple, slowly undulating through the sky like a roiling ocean. Sped up in timelapse, the effect is mesmerizing.

“All spring I chase storms across the United States to collect footage of supercells, lightning, tornadoes and whatever I might find,” writes Olbinski in the video description. “Generally I don’t release any time-lapse clips from those chases until I put out my final end of season compilation film. But last night in North Dakota was too unreal to let sit on my hard drive for months.”

One look, and you’ll understand why he made the exception.

These undulating clouds, combined with the deep reds and oranges of sunset, made for one of the most spectacular natural displays Olbinski is ever likely to capture on camera. And if you think we’re exaggerating, take Olbinski’s word for it. He called this “one of the most incredible scenes I’ve witnessed chasing storms for the past 8 years.”

“Undulatus asperatus clouds are a rare phenomenon and actually the newest named cloud type in over 60 years. I’ve seen tons of photos of them, but never anything like what we witnessed last night,” remembers Olbinski. “Watching them was amazing already, but then the sun slowly appeared from behind some clouds to the west and lit up our storm like nothing we’ve ever seen before. We were like kids in a candy store. Running around, doing our best to capture it from every possible angle.”

Check out the full timelapse up top. If at all possible, watch it on a huge screen, with the lights off, headphones on, and the YouTube video set to 4K. This video is an experience.

(via Kottke)

Discussion