See how storm chasers are impressed by the tornado that hit Texas

Storm chasers were recently stunned by an awe-inspiring weather event in Texas that would have sent many running for cover.

Storm chaser Laura Hedien documented a tornado that touched down halfway between Lubbock and Amarillo in the small town of Silverton on Sunday afternoon, recording a video of an epic thunderstorm dancing across a farm field and a tornado touching down in open farmland.

Hedien and the other witnesses were horrified by the strength and size of the tornado.

“I haven’t seen anything like this,” someone can be heard saying in the video.

The tornado was captured in a 38-second clip by Hedien, but remained in the area for about 20 minutes, one of the storm chasers said. It wasn’t long before the National Weather Service in Lubbock issued a tornado warning for the area, writing in X which would come into effect until 9:15 pm on Sunday.

The tornado had mostly disappeared, dissipating northwest of Caprock Canyons State Park, more than 20 miles east of where it started, according to the weather service office in Lubbock.

Watch this ‘beautiful’ twister land

Storm chasers were clearly mesmerized by the sight of the tornado, with some making comments about the sight and location of the tornado.

“Look where we are now,” a man can be heard saying.

Another called the tornado “beautiful,” marveling at its shape and size, while others shouted “God bless America” and “Holy cow.”

Another hoped “there was no one out there.” No injuries were reported as a result of the tornado.

Tornado activity at its peak, with more occurrences in 2024

Texas has been hit by 13 more tornadoes this year than last, with a total of 89 recorded so far in 2024, according to a report from the Lubbock Avalanche-Journalpart of the USA TODAY Network.

As thunderstorms, a key ingredient in tornado formation, remain in the forecast this summer, it’s important to know how to stay safe.

A specific combination of thunderstorm winds, namely the combination of an updraft of air and a downdraft of air, can create a tornado, according to the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research Science Education Center.

“Spinning air moves horizontally across the ground and can be tilted vertically by the force of the rising, spinning air. This allows a tornado to form,” according to the center.

Here are some tips to keep you and your loved one safecourtesy of Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. If you encounter a tornado near your home or on the road this summer:

• Seeking shelter and protecting your body should be your first priority.

• Take refuge in an interior room on the lowest floor of the building, as far away from the exterior and walls and windows as possible – even in a basement, if there is one.

• Immediately stop the vehicle at the side of the road, get out and lie down in a nearby ditch, covering your neck and head if no other protection is possible.

• Find a safe location that offers shelter from high winds and debris if you are in the tornado warning area, even if it does not appear to be heading your way.

• Seek shelter if a tornado is nearby, regardless of your altitude.

• Find a safe place indoors, even if it’s on a river or lake.

Contributing: Brandi D. Addison

This article originally appeared in USA TODAY: Watch: Storm chasers capture tornado shape in rural Texas