Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are a big part of the summer and even the spring and fall in certain parts of the country. However, they seem to be most common in the summer. Basically, thunderstorms are when a cold front and warm front interact and cause atmospheric changes. They often happen on a hot, steamy day when a colder front moves in. The changes that happen result in thunder, lightening, and rain. In some parts of the country and of the world thunderstorms are taken one step further. They result in tornados which mainly happen in places that are flat. Places with elevation don’t usually have a problem with tornados because the flat places allow the tornado to gain ground.
In order to understand thunderstorms you may need to do some further study. You can read up on them in an encyclopedia or in a computer to help you gain an understanding. But there is one aspect of thunderstorms that you don’t normally have a chance to read about. It is fun to observe the atmospheric changes that occur when they are about to happen. The air feels differently. The animals behave differently. The leaves on the trees are flipped upside down, exposing the white undersides to the air. These are things that can help give you a sign that a thunderstorm is going to happen. It is important to understand what these signs are so you can take precautions.
Sometimes thunderstorms move in so quickly you may find yourself in a situation where you will need to find protection quickly, especially if you are in the woods. It can be unsettling to end up in the middle of a storm with nowhere to go. This is not really a problem underneath tree cover but if you are on an exposed ridge or on the top of a mountain this is not a safe place. You want to avoid being near water and you want to also avoid being on a ridge. It is a good idea to also unplug your appliances such as your computer and television at home so they don’t get damaged. Stay as safe as possible and make sure your home is protected against power surges and you will be all set.
