A dramatic shelf cloud appeared in Maryland as severe thunderstorms caused flash floods and tornado warnings. The shelf cloud, a wedge-shaped formation, is created when downdraft air from a thunderstorm pushes out and lifts warmer, moist air, resulting in its characteristic appearance. Meteorologists confirmed the sightings while locals referred to the events as 'Doomsday in Maryland.' The National Weather Service issued severe thunderstorm watches for the region, with warnings specifically for Bowie, Maryland. This cloud resembles tornadoes and is associated with supercell thunderstorms.
Locals captured a tube-like cloud that seemed to go on for miles as it hung over entire neighborhoods. Meteorologists have confirmed the formation was a shelf cloud, a low, wedge-shaped cloud that forms along the leading edge of a thunderstorm's gust front.
Shelf clouds are typically found along the leading edge of a supercell thunderstorm. These formations are often mistaken for tornadoes or funnel clouds as they are found just a couple hundred feet above the ground.
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