Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms A- How do thunderstorms form? B- What is lightning? C- What is thunder? D- How can you stay safe during a thunderstorm?

A. How do thunderstorms form? Warm, humid air rises rapidly. As it rises the water vapor cools and creates cumulonimbus clouds (also know as thunderheads.) Rising air (updrafts) and falling air (downdrafts) form. Rain forms, and may become hail.

B. What is lightning? Sudden spark, or energy discharge between clouds or clouds and the ground Lightning can cause unconsciousness, serious burns or even heart failure

C. What is thunder? The sound resulting in the explosion of super-heated air Light travels faster than sound, so you see the lightning before you hear the thunder

D. How can you stay safe during a thunderstorm? Avoid touching metal objects because they conduct electricity into your body If you are outside, find low areas away from open spaces If you are inside, avoid touching telephones, electrical appliances and plumbing

E. Additional Thunderstorm Facts Thunderstorms occur all over the world Thunderstorms usually occur at cold fronts, but can occur anywhere large amounts of warm, moist air rises quickly Thunderstorms usually occur in the spring and summer months, but can occur any time of the year.

Hail http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZr8jXo1Uso Slow Motion Lightning http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=RLWIBrweSU8&NR=1 Lightning from Space http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tHqov_UHYA