In June 2003, this skeletal supercell erupted on the High Plains plateau of northeastern New Mexico, then twisted its way conveniently south-southeastward beside the only paved road in the region. For the few fortunate enough to witness its whole evolution, it will be remembered for a lifetime, despite never having a reasonable chance of producing a tornado. Beauty was in the eyes of every beholder, simultaneously awed and humbled by something so grand, powerful and picturesque. Layered, laminar supercells such as this have earned the nickname “Stack of Plates” among many storm watchers, and it’s not difficult to see why.
