Storms in US: what are the four types of thunderstorms?
The National Weather Service has warned that severe thunderstorms are expected in the Central US on Wednesday, and these could bring hail, rain, and winds.
The hurricane season is well on its way in the US. Now that the country is experiencing warmer weather, more thunderstorms can be expected. Some storms are more intense than others, depending on what kind they are.
What are the four types of thunderstorms?
Thunderstorms have similar life cycles, but they can vary in size and impact. Here are the various types of storms that we can experience.
Single-cell thunderstorms
These are the simplest type of thunderstorms and are usually short-lived, lasting only 30 to 60 minutes. They are also known as “pulse” thunderstorms because they quickly build up, produce a single updraft of warm air, and then dissipate.
The are also sometimes called “air mass thunderstorms,” and are usually small. They form in areas where there is a lot of moisture and warm air rising into a cooler atmosphere. Single-cell thunderstorms typically produce brief heavy rain, lightning, and thunder.
Multi-cell thunderstorms
These thunderstorms consist of a group of individual storms that work together, often in a line or cluster. They are often more intense than single-cell thunderstorms and can last for several hours. They form when updrafts and downdrafts interact, causing the storm to regenerate. They can produce heavy rain, hail, and strong winds.
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Squall line thunderstorms
These are a type of multi-cell thunderstorm that forms a long line of storms along a cold front. They are known for their strong, damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall. Squall line thunderstorms can also produce tornadoes, and can last for several hours. They are particularly common in the midwest.
Supercell thunderstorms
As the intimidating name implies, these are the most severe and dangerous type of thunderstorm, characterized by a rotating updraft known as a mesocyclone. Supercell thunderstorms are the least common type, but are the most powerful, with the capacity to produce very large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. They can last for several hours before finally dissipating.