Thunderstorm
Thunderstorm
A Thunderstorm, also known as an electrical storm or a lightning storm, is a storm characterized by the presence of lightning and its acoustic effect on the Earth's atmosphere, known as thunder.
Pronunciation
- /ˈθʌndərstɔːrm/
Etymology
The term "thunderstorm" comes from the Old English 'þunor' (thunder) and 'storm'.
Description
Thunderstorms are usually accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain and sometimes snow, sleet, hail, or, in contrast, no precipitation at all. Thunderstorms may line up in a series or rainband, known as a squall line. Strong or severe thunderstorms may rotate, known as supercells.
Formation
Thunderstorms result from the rapid upward movement of warm, moist air. They can occur inside warm, moist air masses and at fronts. As the warm, moist air moves upward, it cools, condenses, and forms a cumulonimbus cloud that can reach heights of over 20 kilometers.
Types of Thunderstorms
There are three types of thunderstorms: single-cell, multi-cell, and supercell. Supercell thunderstorms are the strongest and most severe.
Hazards
Thunderstorms can cause flash floods, fires sparked by lightning, and damaging straight-line winds. Severe thunderstorms can also produce tornadoes.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thunderstorm
- Wikipedia's article - Thunderstorm
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