Hazardous weather can pose a significant danger to those in the way of the storm; understanding how to identify these weather patterns is the first step to staying safe.
Hail
Hail is a result of ice forming within thunderstorm clouds. When rain is cycled through the clouds and the temperature is cold enough, ice pellets will begin to form. Each time the same droplet is cycled through the cloud, an additional layer of ice is developed on the structure. When this hail pellet is heavy enough, it will fall downwards towards the surface of the earth.
Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska are the states with the greatest chance of hail. Unfortunately, hail can be up to several inches in diameter and can cause a lot of damage to homes and vehicles. If you experience significant vehicle damage, you may need to make an appointment for hail storm vehicle repair Denver CO.
Tornado
Tornadoes are formed during thunderstorms as a result of a high-speed, rotating section of air; the exact science behind the development of tornadoes is not fully understood. When tornadoes are formed, they are not visible until they begin to form a cloud of condensation, making tornadoes initially undetectable.
Of all the hazardous weather, tornadoes are some of the most dangerous disasters because there is little warning to prepare. Texas and Kansas are two states with the highest annual average of tornados.
If you are made aware of a tornado watch, this means that the conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado, but no physical tornado has yet to be seen. On the other hand, a tornado warning indicates a threat because a tornado has already been spotted and you need to take shelter immediately.
Hurricane
Hurricanes are the result of warm, moist air rising over the ocean as cool air is falling to take its place. As this exchange of air occurs, large clouds begin to form and, eventually, result in thunderstorms. As the thunderstorms continue developing, the high-speed winds will also begin. If the winds reach a speed of at least 74mph, the storm will be considered a hurricane.
Hurricanes almost always form during the summer due to the warmer weather and by definition, must form over the ocean. Florida and Texas are the areas most commonly impacted by hurricanes.
Although the storm itself can be damaging, the flooding during and after the storm is the most devastating effect.
If you are witnessing any signs of severe weather, be sure to act fast and follow all response protocols to stay as safe as possible.
