cloud types cumulus

What’s the Difference Between Weather and Climate?

When most people think about the weather, they’re thinking about conditions in the short term—the current temperature, what it’s like outside, and whether or not it looks like it’s going to rain. On the other hand, climate refers to average weather conditions in a particular area over time.

outflow boundary shelf cloud

What is an Outflow Boundary?

An outflow boundary is a meteorological term that refers to the boundary between two air masses created by a thunderstorm’s downdraft. If you’ve ever stood outside during a thunderstorm and felt the cool rush of air preceding a storm, you’ve experienced an outflow boundary.

Lightning striking over city skyline at night.

15 Lightning Safety Tips That Will Keep You Safe in a Storm

In a thunderstorm, there is no safe place outside. Finding shelter quickly is critical. The sound of thunder often precedes a storm by only a few miles, and fast-moving storms can give you little time to find shelter. But it’s better to take cover long before you hear the first rumbles of thunder.

Lightning at night over a house in Melbourne, Florida.

What is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch?

Severe thunderstorms are common in the Southeast U.S and Midwest. However, they can happen almost anywhere (even in unusual places, like Alaska). If weather conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch.

flash flood

What is a Flash Flood Watch?

Areas that experience heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and tropical storms are susceptible to flash floods. If weather conditions are favorable for a flash flood in your area, the National Weather Service issues a flash flood watch to give you time to prepare.

Tornado forming over rural landscape with wind turbines.

What is a Tornado Watch?

Most common in the U.S. in the Great Plains and the Southeast, tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent weather events. Since thunderstorms always precede tornadoes, thunderstorms are prevalent in the same regions as tornadoes.

yuma sunniest us cities

The Sunniest US Cities

Sunshine is good for you. It’s a natural source of Vitamin D. It elevates your mood and has been shown to lower blood pressure. A sunny day makes outdoor activities that much more pleasant. If you love the sunshine, there’s no better place in America to be than the Desert Southwest.

hurricane season evacuation route sign

When is Hurricane Season Where You Live?

The National Hurricane Center says the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and runs through November 30. However, in reality, hurricanes can happen anytime from early May to late December.

High Wind Warning

What is a High Wind Warning?

The National Weather Service issues various wind warnings to warn the public of dangerous wind conditions. Wind warnings are issued when sustained wind speeds are expected to reach or exceed a certain speed for a certain amount of time.

squall line in illinois

Squall line on the way? Take cover now

A squall line is a line of strong and severe thunderstorms common in the spring and summer and often produce strong winds, lightning, heavy rain, and hail. Squall lines often form ahead of cold fronts but can develop independently if several strong thunderstorms merge.

microburst

What is a Microburst?

Weather is a complex and fascinating subject, with numerous phenomena occurring all around the globe. One such event, a microburst, can be as captivating as … Read more

isolated vs scattered thunderstorms blog header

The Difference Between Isolated and Scattered Thunderstorms

When most people think of thunderstorms, they imagine a large, dark storm cloud that pops up in the afternoon and evening, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. This type of storm is called an air mass thunderstorm. However, two other types of thunderstorms often precede frontal passages in the summer.