A few days ago Chicago experienced a low, horizontal cloud formation known as a roll cloud. The incredible moment was captured as a 5 second timelapse by art consultant Amy King.
Meteorologist Cheryl Scott also shared Amy’s video of the brief atmospheric event, said to unfold as it meets cold air from the sea breeze.
“What is a Roll Cloud and how does it form? It’s a low, horizontal, tube-shaped cloud. It is formed by winds changing speed/direction when the air temperature reverses its state (resulting in warm air on top of cool air). The shear in the atmosphere sets up a rolling motion (Think rolling pin used in a baking) A cold front moved in earlier today allowing for this spectacle!”
Title photo via Jessyca Malina