Weather phenomena encompass a range of atmospheric conditions that shape our environment. Sunny weather features clear skies with less than 30% cloud cover and temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64.4-86°F). Rain weather involves water droplets falling from clouds, with intensities varying from light drizzle to heavy downpours exceeding 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) per hour. Snow weather occurs when air temperatures drop below freezing, resulting in ice crystals or snowflakes accumulating on the ground. Types of weather arise from complex atmospheric interactions involving temperature gradients, pressure systems, and air mass movements. Factors including ocean influences, local conditions, and climate types contribute to the variety of weather patterns observed globally. The 20 types of weather phenomena are listed.
1. Sunny weather
Sunny weather conditions are characterized by clear skies, sunshine, and minimal cloud cover. Cloud cover during sunny weather measures less than 30%, ranging from 0-10%. Sunny weather sky appears bright blue with unobstructed views of the sun. The sky is described as “clear” or “sunny” on a sunny weather day.
Sunny weather temperature ranges from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). Average high temperatures on a weather day reach around 25°C (77°F). Sunny weather brightness exhibits levels of solar radiation. Average daily solar irradiance measures 600-800 W/m² during sunny conditions.
Sunny weather days feature long periods of direct sunlight. Sunshine lasts 8-10 hours per day. Shadows are cast by objects due to sunlight. UV radiation exposure increases during sunny weather.
Sunny weather conditions include characteristics. Humidity levels remain low, below 60%. Light winds blow at speeds below 15 km/h (9 mph). Atmospheric pressure exceeds 1,013 millibars. Precipitation measures less than 1 mm (0.04 inches) per day.
2. Rain weather
Rain weather refers to precipitation in the form of water droplets falling from clouds. Water droplets condense in the atmosphere and fall to Earth’s surface as rain. Rain plays a role in the planet’s water cycle and shapes climate patterns worldwide.
Rain types vary in intensity and duration. Rain falls at rates less than 2.5 mm (0.1 inches) per hour. Moderate rain occurs between 2.5-7.6 mm (0.1-0.3 inches) per hour. Heavy rain exceeds 7.6 mm (0.3 inches) per hour. Rain showers involve periods of rainfall, accompanied by cumulus clouds. Downpours consist of heavy rainfall exceeding 50 mm (2 inches) per hour.
Rain intensity and patterns fluctuate based on atmospheric conditions. Meteorologists measure rainfall amounts using rain gauges and weather radar. Rainfall intensity varies over time, ranging from light drizzle to torrential downpours. Seasonal and regional patterns emerge due to factors like topography, climate, and weather systems.
Rain forecasting relies on advanced meteorological tools and techniques. Weather satellites, Doppler radar, and computer models predict rainfall probability and amount. Nowcasting and ensemble forecasting improve short-term rain predictions. Accurate rain forecasts help communities prepare for weather-related impacts.
Rain frequency differs across climates and regions. Tropical areas experience over 200 rainy days annually. Desert regions have fewer than 20 rainy days per year. Frequent or intense rainfall increases the risk of rain floods. Heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems, leading to flooding in urban and rural areas.
3. Snow weather
Snow weather refers to precipitation falling as ice crystals or snowflakes. Snow forms when air temperature cools below freezing, at 0°C (32°F) or lower. Snow accumulation occurs when snowflakes settle on the ground, ranging from a light dusting to several feet. Snow amount measures snowfall during an event, varying from tenths of inches to feet.
Snow types include dry snow and wet snow. Snow forms in cold air and has low water content. Snow contains high water content and forms in warm, humid air. Snow conditions refer to the state of snow on the ground, including powder, packed, and icy. Powder snow is light and fluffy. Packed snow forms from wind or foot traffic compression. Icy conditions occur when snow melts and refreezes.
Snow blizzards are snowstorms with high winds and low visibility. Blizzards last for at least 3 hours, have sustained winds of at least 56 km/h (35 mph), and reduce visibility to less than 0.4 km (1/4 mile). Snow squalls cause brief but intense snowfall with strong winds and low visibility. Snow storms generate snowfall events lasting hours or days, producing snowfall with high winds and low visibility.
4. Windy weather
Windy weather is characterized by air movement and wind speeds. Weather systems with sustained winds of at least 24-32 km/h (15-20 mph) are considered windy.
Wind speed is a key aspect of weather. Sustained winds range from 24-32 km/h (15-20 mph) to over 80-97 km/h (50-60 mph) in some cases. Wind gusts are brief, intense increases in wind speed during weather. Gusts exceed the sustained wind speed by 16-32 km/h (10-20 mph) or more, reaching up to 97-129 km/h (60-80 mph) in extreme situations.
Windy weather patterns are associated with low-pressure systems, fronts, and storms. Low-pressure areas create winds as air rushes in to fill the pressure void. Atmospheric pressure plays a role in windy weather. The pressure gradient, or rate of change of pressure over distance, contributes to wind intensity and direction.
Windy weather effects are wide-ranging. Winds cause damage to buildings, infrastructure, and vegetation, when speeds exceed 80-97 km/h (50-60 mph). Power outages occur due to downed lines and poles. Transportation disruptions affect air travel and profile vehicles. Agricultural activities face challenges from crop damage and reduced yields.
Windy weather influences the atmosphere in ways. Air circulation patterns are disrupted, affecting temperature and humidity levels. Pollutants are dispersed over areas. Weather patterns change as a result of strong winds, leading to increased risk of severe weather events.
5. Cloudy weather
Cloudy weather is a meteorological condition characterized by cloud cover obscuring the sky. Clouds form when water vapor in the atmosphere condenses around particles, creating visible water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air. Cloud types associated with cloudy weather include stratus, cumulus, and nimbus clouds.
Cloudy weather conditions impact atmospheric conditions. Cloudy weather temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50-68°F), with cloud cover acting as an insulating layer that moderates temperature extremes. Cloudy weather atmosphere is humid, with relative humidity levels exceeding 60%. Air quality during cloudy weather is improved due to reduced ground-level ozone formation and increased particle scavenging by cloud droplets.
Cloudy weather meteorology is influenced by factors including high and low-pressure systems, fronts, and wind patterns. Cloudy weather wind speeds range from 5 to 15 km/h (3-9 mph), with patterns like upslope winds and convergence contributing to cloud formation and persistence. Air pressure during cloudy weather decreases, with average values ranging from 990 to 1,010 millibars.
Cloudy weather climate has significant implications for local and regional weather patterns. Cloudy weather is common in marine and mountainous regions, where moisture-rich air is forced to rise and cool. Cloudy conditions play a crucial role in precipitation processes. Cloudy weather precipitation ranges from light drizzle to heavy rain or snow, depending on the cloud type and atmospheric conditions.
Weather forecasting and prediction rely on understanding cloudy weather patterns. Meteorologists use satellite imagery, radar, and atmospheric models to analyze cloud cover, movement, and characteristics. Cloud presence and types provide clues about current and upcoming weather conditions, allowing for accurate short-term and long-range forecasts.
6. Hail weather
Hail weather is precipitation in the form of balls or lumps of ice. Hail forms inside thunderstorm updrafts when raindrops are carried high into cold areas of the atmosphere and freeze.
Hail clouds, known as cumulonimbus clouds or thunderheads, reach heights over 10,000 meters. Hail ice composition consists of layers accumulated as hailstones grow by colliding with hailstones and supercooled droplets. Hail shape varies from spherical to ellipsoidal and irregular forms, determined by atmospheric conditions. Hail size ranges from pea to baseball or larger, with hail exceeding 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter and weighing up to 1 kg (2.2 lbs).
Hail storms are thunderstorms that produce hail, rain, lightning, and winds. Hail precipitation occurs when hailstones become too heavy to remain suspended in the air. Hail wind or hail drift happens when winds blow hailstones across surfaces, exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph) during storms.
Hail damage affects aircraft, homes, cars, and crops. Hail damage severity depends on hail size, duration, and wind speed. Hail climate varies by region, with mid-latitudes experiencing the most hail due to moisture and instability. Hail conditions require updrafts exceeding 10-15 m/s (22-34 mph), water content, and a freezing level between 2-10 km (1.2-6.2 miles) above ground. Hail duration ranges from minutes to hours.
7. Fog weather
Fog weather is a low-lying cloud layer that forms near the Earth’s surface, reducing visibility to less than 1 kilometer (0.6 miles). Fog forms when moist air near the ground cools to its dew point, causing water vapor to condense into droplets. Fog formation occurs through mechanisms: cooling from below, warm air moving over cool surfaces, or cool air moving under warm air.
Fog conditions involve high humidity, light winds, and temperature inversions. Areas near bodies of water, valleys, and low-lying regions are prone to fog development. Fog types include varieties. Radiation fog forms overnight as the ground cools. Advection fog develops when warm, moist air blows over a cool surface. Valley fog occurs in mountain valleys when dense cold air settles. Sea fog forms over oceans when warm air moves over cooler water.
Fog effects impact life and transportation. Fog reduces visibility to less than 100 meters, making navigation challenging. Fog disrupts air travel, causing flight delays and cancellations. Road travel becomes hazardous, increasing the risk of accidents. Maritime activities face challenges due to reduced visibility in foggy conditions.
Fog safety requires precautions for activities. Drivers must slow down, use low-beam headlights, and maintain a distance from vehicles. Aviation safety protocols include instrument-based navigation and flight diversions. Safety measures involve using fog horns, reducing speed, and relying on radar navigation.
8. Drizzle weather
Drizzle weather is characterized by light precipitation consisting of small water droplets. Drizzle rain produces a light fall of water droplets from low-hanging clouds. Drizzle droplets measure 0.5 mm (0.02 inches) or less in diameter, smaller than raindrops. Drizzle precipitation rate ranges from 0.1 to 1.0 mm/h (0.004 to 0.04 in/h).
Drizzle clouds are stratocumulus or stratus clouds, appearing as low-level layers. Drizzle clouds have a base height of less than 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). Drizzle fog forms when droplets mix with air near the surface, reducing visibility to less than 1 km (0.6 miles). Drizzle showers combine elements of drizzle and showers, characterized by droplet fall punctuated by occasional heavier showers.
Drizzle weather conditions include overcast skies, low cloud ceilings, and a stable atmosphere. Drizzle atmosphere has high humidity, above 80%, with little vertical motion. Drizzle weather reduces visibility to 1-5 kilometers (0.6-3.1 miles) due to precipitation and fog conditions. Drizzle precipitation lasts for periods, ranging from hours to days.
Drizzle type differs from forms of rainfall, such as showers or thunderstorms. Drizzle climate occurs in maritime regions, including coastal areas of Western Europe, North America, and Asia. Drizzle weather occurs in cool and humid air, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C (40°F to 60°F). Drizzle rainfall produces light daily totals ranging from 1 to 10 mm (0.04 to 0.4 in).
9. Lightning weather
Lightning is a sudden electrostatic discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. Lightning storms create discharges between clouds and the ground, with cloud flashes occurring 5-10 times more than cloud-to-ground flashes. Lightning clouds, cumulonimbus, build up charge and reach heights over 10,000 meters. Charge separation in these clouds leads to electrical imbalances, causing lightning during storm development.
Lightning detection systems use equipment to monitor activity in real-time within a 10-kilometer (6.2 miles) radius. These systems detect electromagnetic pulses from lightning strikes, aiding in weather forecasting and ensuring safety during storms. Lightning snow, known as thundersnow, occurs during snowstorms when conditions allow for electrical discharges in winter precipitation.
Lightning temperature reaches up to 30,000 Kelvin (29,727°C, 53,540°F), five times hotter than the sun’s surface. This extreme heat affects the surrounding air and objects, causing fires and damage. Lightning science has progressed in recent years, with researchers using technologies like radar, satellite imaging, and computer modeling to study lightning behavior.
Lightning channels, or lightning are, extend up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) in length. Lightning occurring involves the formation of an ionized air channel called a leader. Lightning strikes happen when the return stroke of electricity reaches the ground, with the Earth’s surface being struck 50 times per second. The National Weather Service reports that the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are 1 in 700,000.
10. Frost weather
Frost weather occurs when water vapor in the air freezes onto surfaces as temperatures drop below 0°C (32°F). Frost formation requires conditions including low temperatures, high humidity, and calm winds. Frost air exhibits a temperature inversion, trapping air near the ground and creating ideal conditions for frost development.
Frost ice takes forms on surfaces, including hoarfrost, black frost, and rime frost. Frost wind plays a crucial role in frost formation, as light winds allow frost to develop while strong winds prevent it by mixing air layers. Frost effects impact the environment and human activities in agriculture where crops are damaged or destroyed. Frost temperature ranges between -2°C and 0°C (28°F to 32°F) for frost formation to occur.
Frost events are classified into three types: radiation frost, advection frost, and evaporation frost. Frost data is collected using weather stations and satellite imagery to monitor and predict frost conditions. Frost formation is common in regions, influenced by weather patterns and topography. Meteorologists use weather forecasting models to predict frost conditions, helping farmers and stakeholders prepare for frost events.
11. Sleet weather
Sleet weather is a type of winter precipitation that occurs under atmospheric conditions. Sleet forms when snowflakes fall through a warm air layer and then a cold air layer, resulting in a mixture of rain and snow. The warm air layer has temperatures between 2°C and 5°C (36°F to 41°F), while the cold air layer is below -2°C (28°F). Sleet precipitation differs from both snow and rain in its formation process, requiring temperature fluctuations around the freezing point.
Sleet appears as ice pellets or ice particles. These particles are harder than snow but softer than hail. Sleet precipitation intensity must be at least 1 mm/h (0.04 in/h) to be classified as sleet. Sleet weather involves winds above 15 km/h (9.3 mph), adding to its distinctive characteristics. The temperature during sleet events ranges between -10°C and 0°C (14°F and 32°F).
Sleet conditions create hazardous road conditions due to the potential for ice accumulation. Sleet measurement uses millimeters (mm) or inches (in) of precipitation, though accurate measurement is challenging due to the size of sleet particles and their tendency to bounce. Sleet differs from freezing rain in its freezing process and appearance, as sleet refreezes before reaching the ground. Sleet weather requires specific atmospheric conditions to occur, making it a rare type of precipitation compared to rain or snow.
12. Blizzard weather
Blizzards are winter storms characterized by high winds, heavy snowfall, and low visibility. Blizzard conditions persist for at least 3 hours, as defined by the National Weather Service. Blizzard criteria include sustained winds or gusts of 22 km/h (35 mph) or greater, coupled with falling and/or blowing snow reducing visibility to 0.4 km (1/4 mile) or less. Blizzard conditions create whiteout situations where visibility is near zero, producing heavy snow drifts from the blowing snow.
Blizzard winds cause drifting and blowing snow, making roads impassable and reducing visibility to near zero. Blizzard snow storms bring snowfall, producing over 1 foot of snow in a short period. Blizzard ice forms when snow melts and then refreezes, creating a layer of ice on surfaces. Blizzard chill, known as wind chill, makes the air feel colder than the actual temperature, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Blizzard impacts include reduced visibility, hazardous travel conditions, and power outages due to heavy snow and strong winds. Blizzard disasters result in loss of life, property damage, and economic disruption. The Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale (NESIS) measures the severity of blizzards on a scale from 1 (not severe) to 5 (extremely severe), considering factors like snowfall amount, wind speed, and population density.
Blizzard safety is crucial due to life-threatening conditions. Blizzard safety guidelines recommend staying indoors, avoiding travel unless necessary, keeping a winter emergency kit in vehicles, and maintaining full gas tanks. Blizzard preparedness is essential to minimize the risk of injury or death. People must stay informed and follow evacuation orders during blizzards to ensure their safety.
13. Humid weather
Humid weather is characterized by high levels of moisture in the air. Humid weather conditions have relative humidity above 60%, making the air feel warmer than the actual temperature. Humidity increases the likelihood of precipitation events such as rain and thunderstorms.
Humid weather climate is common in tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia, the Amazon Basin, and the southeastern United States. These areas experience average relative humidity between 70-90% and rainfall between 1,500-3,000 mm (59-118 inches). Temperate zones experience humid weather during summer months.
Weather humidity is measured as the amount of water vapor present in the air. Humidity levels affect human comfort and perceived temperature. Dew point temperatures above 18°C (64.4°F) indicate humidity, creating a muggy and uncomfortable feeling. Temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) combined with high humidity exacerbate heat waves and make hot conditions feel oppressive.
Weather wind patterns play a role in distributing moisture and influencing humidity levels. Wind speeds below 15 km/h (9.3 mph) are typical in humid weather conditions. Sea breezes and thunderstorm outflows are wind patterns in humid climates. Wind speeds in humid weather climates are between 5-10 km/h (3-6.2 mph), contributing to the air and humidity buildup associated with high-pressure systems.
14. Drought weather
Droughts are prolonged periods of low rainfall that lead to water scarcity. Drought conditions involve low rainfall measured as a percentage of normal rainfall, 25-50% below long-term averages for 3-6 months. Drought intensity is measured by the duration and magnitude of rainfall deficits, categorized into levels including mild, moderate, or severe. Drought severity is measured using indices like the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), ranging from -6 (extreme drought) to +6 (extreme wetness).
Drought conditions include high temperatures that exacerbate drought severity. Drought temperature increases lead to frequent and severe heat waves. Drought evaporation rates increase and exacerbate conditions by reducing water availability. Drought wind increases evaporation and moisture loss, exacerbating conditions. Drought moisture reduction in soil affects plant growth and agricultural productivity.
Drought duration lasts from months to years or decades. Drought impacts cause estimated global economic losses of $6 billion annually. Drought effects include water scarcity for drinking, irrigation, and industry. Drought effects cause crop failure and impact agricultural productivity. Drought vegetation experiences stress, reduced growth, and increased mortality. Drought effects disrupt ecosystems and alter vegetation, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity. Drought effects increase the risk of wildfires due to dry conditions and winds.
Drought weather involves high-pressure systems and ridges that block moisture air masses. Drought climate is common in regions with low rainfall variability like arid and semi-arid areas. Drought areas occur in any region but are common in arid and semi-arid areas. Drought-prone areas include regions with a history of droughts, such as the American Southwest, Australia, and parts of Africa.
15. Heatwave weather
Heatwaves are prolonged periods of high temperatures. A heat wave lasts for days or weeks, with temperatures above average highs for a region. Heatwave weather is characterized by daytime temperatures above 32°C (90°F) and nighttime temperatures above 20°C (69°F), providing no relief from heat.
Heatwave intensity is measured using the Heat Index, which takes into account both temperature and humidity. A Heat Index of 40°C (104°F) or higher is considered extreme, while 45°C (28°F) or higher is catastrophic. Heatwave temperature thresholds vary by region, but involve temperatures of 32°C (90°F) or higher for 3+ consecutive days. Heatwave summers are marked by periods of hot weather, breaking temperature records.
Heatwave effects impact human health, environment, and economy. Heatwave deaths are a significant concern, with researchers estimating 150,000 deaths attributed to heatwaves between 1998 and 2017. Heatwave health impacts include heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which are fatal if not treated promptly. Heatwave impacts extend to disruptions in food and water supplies, increased energy consumption, and power outages.
Heatwave disasters result in loss of life, property damage, and economic disruption. The 2003 European heatwave caused an estimated 70,000 deaths, while the 2019 Indian heat wave killed over 3,000 people. Heatwaves impact agriculture, forestry, and wildlife. Researchers estimate heatwaves cost the US economy over $100 billion annually.
Climate change causes heat waves to become more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting. The urban heat island effect amplifies temperature in urban areas, exacerbating heat wave impacts in cities. Heatwaves are among the deadliest weather phenomena, overwhelming the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Preparing for extreme heat events becomes crucial as the climate warms.
16. Hazy weather
Hazy weather is a condition characterized by reduced visibility due to suspended particles in the air. Visibility during hazy weather is less than 8 km (5 miles). The weather atmosphere appears dull, grayish, or milky. Hazy air contains particles like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and volatile organic compounds. These particles scatter sunlight in the atmosphere, reducing air clarity and visibility of distant objects.
Hazy weather air has poor quality with high concentrations of pollutants. Air Quality Index (AQI) values exceed 100 in hazy conditions, indicating unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in weather are greater than 35 micrograms per cubic meter. Hazy weather atmosphere has an increased aerosol optical depth (AOD), with values above 0.5 indicating hazy conditions and above 1.0 signifying a hazy atmosphere.
Wind plays a role in hazy weather development and duration. Winds exacerbate hazy conditions by allowing pollutants to accumulate in the air. Winds help clear hazy weather air by dispersing aerosols and pollutants. Wind direction influences aerosol transport in conditions affecting the intensity and duration of haze episodes.
17. Thunderstorm weather
A thunderstorm is a weather disturbance characterized by thunder, lightning, rain, and winds. Thunderstorms develop in cumulonimbus clouds reaching heights over 10,000 meters. Thunderstorm clouds form when warm, moist air rises in the atmosphere.
Thunderstorm winds reach speeds up to 100 km/h (62mph). Thunderstorm rain falls at rates up to 100 mm/h (4 in/h), sometimes exceeding 200 mm (8 in/h) in a period. Thunderstorm weather includes rain, hail, winds, lightning, thunder, reduced visibility, and lower temperatures.
Thunderstorm conditions require warm surface air above 20°C (68°F), high humidity, atmospheric instability, and wind shear. Thunderstorms occur worldwide but are common in tropical and subtropical regions. Thunderstorms occur during spring and summer months in the United States. Thunderstorms producing severe weather are common in regions like North America’s Great Plains.
Meteorologists predict thunderstorms using radar, satellite imagery, and computer models. Thunderstorm prediction is crucial for public safety. Thunderstorms were major causes of damage and loss of life. Thunderstorms produce phenomena like tornadoes, hail, flash flooding, and winds.
18. Cyclone weather
Cyclones are atmospheric circulation systems characterized by low pressure at their center and rotating winds. Cyclone winds spiral inward toward the low-pressure core, reaching speeds from 30 km/h (19 mph) to over 200 km/h (124 mph). Winds rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
Cyclone pressure ranges from 950 hPa to 1000 hPa, with lower pressures indicating stronger storms. Cyclone area spans from hundreds to thousands of kilometers in diameter, covering vast geographical regions.
Cyclone weather brings heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas. Cyclone storms produce precipitation, exceeding 100 mm/h (4 in/h) in some systems. Cyclone rain leads to prolonged periods of heavy downpours, causing flash flooding and landslides. Cyclone conditions include wind gusts over 100 km/h (62 mph), rainfall rates exceeding 50 mm/h (2 in/h), lightning, and wave heights surpassing 5 meters.
Cyclone locations vary based on their type. Tropical cyclones form over ocean waters near the equator, while extratropical cyclones develop in mid-latitudes. Cyclones occur in regions, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
19. Tornado weather
Tornado weather involves specific atmospheric conditions conducive to tornado formation. Warm, moist air near the ground collides with cold, dry air aloft, creating temperature gradients for tornadoes. Wind shear causes rotating updrafts essential for tornado development. Unstable atmosphere produces updrafts and downdrafts that can lead to tornadoes.
Tornado warnings are issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. Weather forecasting agencies issue warnings for an area like a county or city, valid for 30 minutes to 1 hour. People must seek immediate shelter when a tornado warning is issued for their area. Basements and storm cellars provide the safest shelter during tornadoes. Interior rooms or hallways on the lowest floor offer shelter if underground options are unavailable.
Tornado alerts are distributed through channels to the public. The National Weather Service (NWS) and Emergency Management Agencies (EMA) send alerts to mobile devices. Some communities use sirens and warning systems for tornado alerts. News and weather reports provide tornado alerts to viewers and listeners.
The Enhanced Fujita Scale measures tornado intensity, ranging from EF0 to EF5. Wind speed determines a tornado’s rating on the scale. EF0 tornadoes have wind speeds of 105-137 km/h (65-85 mph) and cause light damage. EF5 tornadoes have wind speeds of (323-431 km/h) 201-268 mph and cause damage. Damage extent and affected area contribute to a tornado’s rating on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.
20. Dust storm weather
A dust storm is a weather phenomenon characterized by strong winds that blow loose sand, dirt, and dust over areas. Dust storms reduce visibility to less than 1 km (0.6 miles). Winds loft fine particles into the air through saltation during dust storms, creating hazardous conditions.
Dust storm events occur in arid and semi-arid regions like the American Southwest, Africa, and the Middle East. Dust storm events have wind speeds of 40-100 km/h (25-62 mph)and last from several hours to several days. Airborne particle concentrations during dust storms reach up to 10,000 μg/m³. Spring and summer months see frequent dust storms due to drought, heatwaves, and thunderstorms.
Dust storm impacts are wide ranging. Dust storms cause soil erosion, reduce air quality, and damage ecosystems . Inhaling dust particles exacerbates respiratory issues like asthma and COPD. Winds and dust damage buildings, vehicles, and crops during dust storms. Dust storms disrupt transportation systems, causing losses and stranding people.
Dust storm risk exists in areas with dry soil, strong winds, and limited vegetation. Land management practices increase dust storm risks. Population density and urbanization contribute to dust storm risks. Proximity to deserts and dry lake beds increases dust storm risks.
Dust storm safety measures recommend staying indoors and avoiding travel during dust storms. Safety measures advise wearing masks, goggles, and clothing if outdoors is necessary. Running air purifiers and keeping windows and doors closed are recommended during dust storms. Drivers must slow down and use low-beam headlights if travel is unavoidable.
Black Sunday, a major historical dust storm disaster, occurred in 1935 during the Dust Bowl era. Dust storms are disasters exacerbated by human activities like deforestation and poor agricultural practices. Dust storms affect regions, posing significant public health concerns and economic challenges.
Why do we have different types of weather?
Different types of weather result from complex atmospheric interactions. Factors like temperature gradients, pressure systems, and air mass movements create diverse weather patterns globally. Ocean influences, local conditions, and climate types shape weather. Fronts formed by colliding air masses produce weather like thunderstorms and hurricanes. Latitude, elevation, and distance from oceans impact weather variations.
Moisture content varies between different areas, leading to differences in humidity and precipitation. Moist air evaporates from oceans and lakes, rises, and cools to form clouds. Clouds reflect sunlight back to space and trap heat in the atmosphere, influencing climate conditions. Ocean currents transport heat across the globe, impacting weather patterns. The Gulf Stream moderates climate in coastal regions by 5-10°C (41-50°F).
Landscapes affect climate conditions. Mountains block or redirect winds, while valleys channel air movements. Earth’s rotation creates the Coriolis effect, deflecting winds and ocean currents between hemispheres. Scale circulation patterns form due to the Coriolis effect, shaping regional climates through Hadley, Ferrel, and Rossby cells.
Storms develop from temperature and moisture differences, bringing weather like hurricanes, typhoons, and blizzards. Precipitation patterns vary between regions, with some areas receiving over 10,000 mm (394 inches) annually while others less than 10 mm (0.4 inches). Climate varies over time due to factors, including changes in Earth’s orbit and volcanic eruptions. Human activities contribute to climate change, altering climate patterns through greenhouse gas emissions.
Weather types emerge from sun-atmosphere-surface interactions, resulting in phenomena across tropical, desert, and polar climates. High and low-pressure systems shape weather, while fronts and storms influence conditions. El Niño and La Niña events impact global climate every 2-7 years. Scientists study these factors to predict weather and climate variability, with meteorologists analyzing short-term phenomena and climatologists researching long-term trends.
What types of weather are considered severe weather?
Severe weather encompasses extreme events like tornadoes, thunderstorms, and hail. Cyclones, floods, freezes, heatwaves, and downpours are classified as severe weather. Tropical cyclones form over warm oceans. Heavy rainfall and strong winds accompany many severe weather types. These phenomena cause impacts on communities and ecosystems, necessitating accurate forecasts and warnings.
Tornadoes are rotating columns of air touching the ground, causing destruction. Floods are overflows of water submerging land, resulting from heavy rainfall, storm surges, or snowmelt. Tropical cyclones are low-pressure systems forming over ocean waters, including hurricanes with sustained winds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or higher.
Weather conditions include blizzards, ice storms, and freezes. Blizzards have sustained winds of 35 knots (65 km/h or 40 mph) or higher, with heavy snowfall and low visibility. Freezes occur at temperatures below 32°F (0°C), damaging crops, pipes, and infrastructure. Heat waves are prolonged periods of hot weather, with temperatures above 32°C (90°F) for several days.