What is a thunderstorm?
A thunderstorm is a type of storm that brings heavy rain, thunder, lightning, and sometimes strong winds or hail. Thunderstorms form when warm, moist air rises and mixes with cooler air. The booming sound of thunder comes from lightning heating the air, causing it to expand rapidly. Severe thunderstorms can cause flooding, power outages, and damage to trees or buildings. Scientists measure the strength of a thunderstorm by monitoring its rainfall, wind speeds, and lightning strikes. To stay safe, avoid standing under trees or near windows during a thunderstorm, and never go outside during lightning.
What is a Flood?
Floods occur when too much water flows into areas that are normally dry. This can happen after heavy rain, during hurricanes, or when rivers and dams overflow. Floodwaters can damage homes, roads, and crops. Some floods happen slowly over several days, giving people time to prepare, while others, called flash floods, happen very quickly and can be dangerous. Flood severity is often measured by how high the water rises compared to normal levels. Flood maps and warnings from meteorologists help people know when to evacuate or prepare. People living in flood-prone areas often build levees or move to higher ground to stay safe.
