Types of Storms

Front

What is a thunderstorm?

Back

A thunderstorm is a rain-bearing cloud that also produces lightning. It is characterized by thunder, heavy rain, and sometimes hail.

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What type of clouds are associated with thunderstorms?

Back

Cumulonimbus clouds are the type of clouds that produce thunderstorms.

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Where do most tornadoes occur in the United States?

Back

Most tornadoes occur in an area known as Tornado Alley, which includes parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota.

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What is the common atmospheric condition shared by thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes?

Back

They all occur in low-pressure systems.

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What is a hurricane?

Back

A hurricane is a large, organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation pattern, forming over warm ocean waters.

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What is the difference between a tornado and a hurricane?

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A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground, while a hurricane is a large storm system that forms over warm ocean waters and can affect large areas.

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What are some signs that a tornado may be approaching?

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Signs include a dark, greenish sky, large hail, and a loud roar similar to a freight train.

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What is the Fujita scale?

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The Fujita scale is a scale used to rate the intensity of tornadoes based on the damage they cause.

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What is the main cause of thunderstorms?

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Thunderstorms are primarily caused by the rising of warm, moist air which cools and condenses to form clouds.

Front

What is hail?

Back

Hail is a form of precipitation that consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice, formed in strong thunderstorms.