What Makes A Thunderstorm?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Lightening poses a serious risk if shelter isn't taken during a severe thunderstorm.

SERVPRO of Burlington/Middlebury would like to encourage Vermont residents to enjoy this beautiful summer weather while being aware of potential risks involved with thunderstorms.

Thunderstorms are defined as storms that produce thunder and lightning. Severe thunderstorms may also produce:

• Torrential rain
• High winds
• Sleet or snow

It’s important to note that thunderstorms do not always produce moisture. A storm in which you see lightning and hear thunder but never feel a drop of water is known as a “dry” thunderstorm. There is also the phenomenon known as the "supercell" storm. "Supercell" storms are known as thunderstorms that produce hail and tornadoes. Storms occur either in clusters or lines. Because of this, they may present as a single thunderstorm or as multiple thunderstorms hitting one after the other.

CAUSES

Thunderstorms are formed when moisture from the lower or mid-level part of the atmosphere mixes with warm, unstable air from the ground. Moisture and air then push upwards into the higher atmosphere to form clouds that produce thunder and lightning, along with potential precipitation. Spring, Summer, and Fall are most conducive to thunderstorms because the sun heats the ground and moisture is more perceptible in the air, especially in humid climates.

Thunderstorms must also be lifted to begin their formation. Some sources of lift include:

• More heat on the ground than in the air
• Changes in atmospheric conditions near mountains
• Weather front changes caused by clashing cold and hot air
• Moist and dry air clashing, known as "drylines"
• Land or sea breezes

Any of these situations can immediately create a thunderstorm without warning, even in the middle of a clear blue day. In many cases, these storms will also be accompanied by lightning. Make sure you always have a storm safety plan in place in make Mother Nature takes her toll, and never hesitate to call us at SERVPRO of Burlington/Middlebury in your time of need!