This is the intense scene of a "firenado" or fire tornado —known scientifically as pyrocumulus formations — when intense wildfires and strong winds create this awe-inspiring force of destruction in Lassen County, California, near the Nevada border, on August 15.

"My son and I went out to see if we could photograph some of the smoke plumes the fire was creating. When we got closer I was able to film a small clip of the fire tornado and take a few stills. We then hit the gas and got out of the way!" said John Rodgers, the filmer.

This video was taken on August 15, 2020 during the Loyalton Fire in California.

This video was taken on August 15, 2020 during the Loyalton Fire in California. My son and I went out to see if we could photograph some of the smoke plumes the fire was creating. While driving on the 395 about 20 miles North of Reno, Nevada we spotted the tornado. I had no other choice but to drive toward the fire tornado so I could attempt to turn around. When we got closer I was able to film a small clip of the fire tornado and take a few stills. We then hit the gas and got out of the way.

This video was taken on August 15, 2020 during the Loyalton Fire in California. My son and I went out to see if we could photograph some of the smoke plumes the fire was creating. While driving on the 395 about 20 miles North of Reno, Nevada we spotted the tornado. I had no other choice but to drive toward the fire tornado so I could attempt to turn around. When we got closer I was able to film a small clip of the fire tornado and take a few stills. We then hit the gas and got out of the way.