Storms
ScienceDefinition
Severe weather disturbances characterized by strong winds, heavy precipitation, and often lightning or thunder. Storms form when warm, moist air masses collide with cooler air, creating instability in the atmosphere that releases large amounts of energy.
Examples
- Hurricanes forming over warm Atlantic waters and making landfall along the Gulf Coast
- Tornado outbreaks in the Midwest during spring when cold and warm fronts collide
- Thunderstorms producing hail, lightning, and heavy rain on a summer afternoon
Study This Concept
Practice storms with free review games in these units: