Archives: Thunderstorms

Discussing mother nature’s lightshow: thunderstorms.

What is an Outflow Boundary?

April 20, 2023

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.

The 10 Stormiest Cities in the US

March 22, 2023

TWSE Explains

Thunderstorms are a regular occurrence during the spring and summer months for large swaths of the United States. As storm systems sweep across the country, the collision of warm tropical air with cooler, drier air to the north, known as a front, triggers these storms. However, this happens much more ... Continue reading

How Does Hail Form?

April 15, 2022

TWSE Explains

When the temperatures are warm, the last thing you're thinking about is frozen precipitation falling from the sky. But it happens, and it's called hail. Hail is a fascinating weather phenomenon. This blog post explores how hail forms and what you should do if you find yourself in the middle of a hail storm.

The Difference Between Isolated and Scattered Thunderstorms

April 8, 2022

TWSE Explains

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.

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

March 21, 2022

Ed Oswald

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.

How Lightning Detectors Work

December 23, 2021

Jenna Deutschman

Have you ever wondered how lightning forms? Have you thought about how meteorologists can detect lightning? Lightning is a mysterious phenomenon in weather prediction; it is impossible to predict accurately but can be tracked with a lightning detector.