Windstorms
What Is A Windstorm?
How Do Windstorms Cause Damage
Windstorm Safety Rules
What Is A Windstorm?
There are many weather phenomena that can threaten life and property
in the springtime. Winds near thunderstorms can be dangerous, with
gusts from severe thunderstorms surging over 60 miles per hour and
causing property damage. Thunderstorms normally produce strong outflow
winds, with rain-cooled air descending from the storm. This air reaches
the ground, then spreads out in a starburst pattern away from the storm
at speeds up to 50 miles per hour.
How Do Windstorms Cause Damage
Damaging outflow winds from thunderstorms, called “downbursts”,
can produce winds in excess of 100 miles per hour. The damage associated
with a “downburst” can mimic that of a tornado, and many
people that are hit by “downburst” winds swear that they
were hit by a tornado. “Downburst” winds are a significant
threat to aircraft, especially during final approach or during take
off. “Downbursts” are classified into two types: a larger
“macroburst”, and a smaller and usually more intense “microburst.”
In the early spring, large storm systems over the Great Plains can
cause widespread wind events and blowing dust. Occasionally, the west
winds associated with these systems can cause damage. Storm systems
with the strength to cause dry and dusty damaging winds often are causing
severe thunderstorms and tornadoes elsewhere. The areas affected by
the blowing dust can have the visibility sometimes reduced to less
than a mile over a wide area, with some areas reduced to less than
100 feet at times.
The combination of poor visibility and strong cross-winds, whether
from a large storm system or from a severe thunderstorm, can make driving
very hazardous.
Windstorm Safety Rules
Safety precautions during high winds are much the same rules followed
for tornadoes. Seek shelter in a well-built structure in an interior
room or closet on the lowest floor. If no structure is available, find
a low spot to avoid flying debris. Be prepared to abandon mobile homes
or your vehicle.
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