Just how away far can you see a storm?

[Rick Schmidt]

Thomas---What focal length lens were you using?

 

[Thomas S]

The focal length is 75mm

 

[Mike Smith]

My most unusual experience in this regard was during the JLN Tornado -- as seen from the Bazaar Cattle Crossing on the Kansas Turnpike, approximately 130 miles away. I could see the storm on the horizon with unusual detail, even cloud-to-ground lightning strikes (although not to the surface). There were two photographers, one with a tripod, set up photographing the usual sight. Unfortunately, as I was by myself didn't feel it was safe to stop.

My guess has always been that the dry air and subsidence behind the storm allowed for the amazing visibility.

 

[Jeff Wright]

With NASA’s SOFIA on the chopping block…I wonder if that optics laden 747 could image a whole tornadic thunderstorm at great distance as well.

 

[Ben Mitchell]

Here's another case of a far away storm

 

[Rick Schmidt]

That's actually pretty close, but maybe your farthest.

 

[James K]

@Ben Mitchell
If it were night, that one is a nice distance for a good lightning-show in the cloud...best viewed from ontop of one of those houses. .lol.