Shelf cloud seen in Raleigh ahead of line of storms

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Monday, May 23, 2022
First Alert Morning Forecast: May 23
Some locally heavy rain will be possible, leading to ponding on the roads and an isolated street flooding threat.

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Take a look at this incredible picture taken from Capital Boulevard in Raleigh on Monday, May 16.

ABC11 viewer Charles from Wake Forest submitted these photos through ABC11.com/Share.

The cloud formation almost looks photoshopped, but Chief Meteorologist Don Schwenneker said it's likely legit. He said it looked like a shelf cloud.

Shelf clouds sometimes form in association with a solid line of storms moving through a region--which is exactly what was happening Monday in central North Carolina.

The clouds themselves are not an indication that the storm system is any stronger or more dangerous than another. However, the storms associated with shelf cloud formation can still bring damaging wind and brief spin-up tornadoes.

This week, more storms are pushing into the area. If you see any interesting cloud formations or weather events and you can safely grab a picture of it, feel free to send it to our team using the form below:

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