Thunderstorms By Kelsey Johnson

What is a thunderstorm? A thunderstorm is a storm of thunder and lighting, that can be accompanied by rain or even hail. There are three main components of a thunderstorm. Unstable air, moisture, and lift.

How does a thunderstorm occur? Convection has a great deal to do with the formation of thunderstorms. When a large amount of warm air rises, it cools higher up in the air and condenses. This forms a cumulonimbus cloud, which is where thunderstorms are formed.

Characteristics of weather during a thunderstorm. During a thunderstorm you will experience… Thunder Lighting Precipitation (rain or hail) High winds (ranging from 30-60 mph)

When do thunderstorms occur? Thunderstorms can occur year round, but they more commonly occur in the spring and summer time. Approximately 1800 thunderstorms occur every day. The average thunderstorm lasts about 30 minutes.

How can meteorologists predict a thunderstorm is coming? Meteorologists can monitor low and high pressure systems, because thunderstorms form in low pressure systems. They can also watch for the formation of cumulonimbus clouds to predict a thunderstorm.

Fort worth Texas thunderstorm A severe thunderstorm occurred in Fort Worth ,Texas on May 5th,1995. There was hail the size of softballs 20 people were killed. Over 100 people were injured. Winds were up to 70 mph The storm caused 20 million dollars worth of damage.

How to be prepared for a thunderstorm. Gather anything that has the potential of being blown away and put it somewhere safe (shed, garage). The winds are likely to be fairly strong and have the capability of damaging anything that is not stored properly. Stay indoors Stay out of water. Lighting travels very quickly through water and you have a possibility of being electrocuted. Keep pets indoors. Use caution with electrical devices, and unplug any that you absolutely don’t need. If lighting strikes the building you are in, it can travel through the wiring in the walls, and into the devices plugged into the electrical circuit.

How to prepare for a thunderstorm continued… Stay away from windows. It is very helpful to have a lighting rod on the roof of your home. When lighting strikes, a lighting rod provides a direct route to the ground. If you don’t have a lighting rod, your house is at risk for a fire.

Survival kit It is very helpful to have the following items prepared in case of a severe thunderstorm. First aid kit Non perishable food items Water Flashlights/candles Matches Blankets Battery powered radio These items can be purchased at your local Walmart or Canadian Tire for around $50-$70. In case of emergency, call 911, or the Emergency Measures Organization at 1- 866-424-5620

1. What type of cloud is a thunderstorm formed from 1.What type of cloud is a thunderstorm formed from? Answer- Thunderstorms are formed from cumulonimbus clouds. 2. When are thunderstorms most likely to occur? Answer- They are most likely to occur in the spring and summer. 3.Approximately how many thunderstorms occur daily? a)1600 b)1400 c)1800 d)1200 Answer- c)1800 4. Why is a lighting rod helpful to have on the roof of your house? Answer- It is helpful because it provides the lighting a direct route to the ground, so your house doesn't catch fire. 5.How long does the average thunderstorm last? a)1 hour b)30 min c)45min d)2 hours Answer-b)30 min

References http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunderstorm http://www.eo.ucar.edu/kids/dangerwx/tstorm4.htm http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-thunderstorms.htm http://m.wikihow.com/Prepare-for-a-Thunderstorm

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