Learn about the development of storms, such as thunderstorms, blizzards, and hurricanes, in this video excerpt from NOVA's Cloud Lab. The formation of powerful storms is a more extreme version of the process that creates clouds. Severe storms require three conditions to develop: an energy source, moisture, and unstable air. The warmer the ground or ocean is below a storm, the more energy that can be transferred to the storm. Large amounts of water vapor produce precipitation and transport energy, fueling the storm. Differences in temperature fuel storms as well. The greater the temperature difference between a storm cloud and its surroundings, the more intense the storm will grow.

This video is available in both English and Spanish audio, along with corresponding closed captions.