That was an incredibly loud, incredibly long clap of thunder that shook structures and set off car alarms throughout New Orleans for more than 15 seconds without stopping.

We have all witnessed a lightning bolt illuminating the night sky and heard the booming crack of thunder that follows. But what exactly is going on to cause this intense weather phenomenon?

AUSTIN (KXAN) – Have you ever wondered why thunder can have different sounds? A crack versus a rumble? Startlingly loud versus calmingly low? Let’s dive in … The basics: what is thunder ...

“I’d estimate the loudest part lasted about 2-4 seconds and instead of the usual single loud crack of thunder sounds. There were multiple loud booms.” ...

AUSTIN (KXAN) – Have you ever wondered why thunder can have different sounds? A crack versus a rumble? Startlingly loud versus calmingly low? Let’s dive in … The basics: what is thunder ...

AUSTIN (KXAN) – Have you ever wondered why thunder can have different sounds? A crack versus a rumble? Startlingly loud versus calmingly low? Let’s dive in … The basics: what is thunder ...