Man stumbles across a still-forming tornado and captures every storm chaser’s dream video

As two devastating hurricanes approach the Florida coast, climate change and extreme weather events have become hot topics across the U.S. Each year, we’re witnessing increasingly severe weather, leading to a rise in reckless behavior from clout-chasers looking to score internet fame. A prime example is TikTok user @javiii.com4, who recently went viral for his dangerously bold decision to capture a dust devil on video.

In a clip that amassed nearly 4.5 million views and over 807,000 likes, @javiii.com4 was working in a construction setting when he recorded the impressive formation of a dust devil. His video shows the swirling column of air as it moves ominously through the area, thrilling his coworkers and viewers alike.

While dust devils are smaller and less destructive than tornadoes, they can still pose dangers. The video showcases how the dust devil kicked up debris and swept through the gathered workers, leaving them both exhilarated and unscathed. Importantly, dust devils form from the ground up, unlike tornadoes that descend from storm clouds, and are often found in hot, arid regions.

Despite the risk, the TikToker and his colleagues chose to stand their ground, capturing the wild moment on film. Commenters had a field day with their antics, joking about the “cameraman never dies” trope and playfully criticizing @javiii.com4 for “rawdawging a tornado.”

Ultimately, the video serves as a reminder of the power of nature—and the lengths some will go to for a moment of viral fame, even in the face of potential danger.