ORLANDO, Fla. – Crack, boom, clap. We’re all used that loud rumbling sound of lightning in Central Florida, but have you ever heard of the phenomenon thundersnow?
Thundersnow, as its name implies, is essentially a snowy thunderstorm. However, occurrences of this wintry phenomenon are much rarer compared to the spring and summer thunderstorms that most people are familiar with.
How does it form?
The formation of thundersnow involves a process that differs somewhat from ordinary thunderstorms.
Regular thunderstorms are comparably straightforward, with rising pockets of air. As air pockets ascend, reaching a sufficient height, the upper portion of the cloud undergoes freezing.
The crucial element in thundersnow formation lies in this vertical momentum, as it leads to the charging of ice crystals.
Regions with higher risk of thundersnow
Thundersnow is more likely to be observed in areas with high towers and city skyscrapers. The pointed tips of these structures can physically penetrate the cloud base, concentrating ambient electric fields that are otherwise low.
This concentration of charge can eventually lead to lightning strikes.
Is thundersnow dangerous?
If you hear the rumble of thunder during thundersnow, you are likely within a mile or two of the lightning strike.
Despite the misconception that thundersnow is harmless and that a significant portion of its lightning stays within clouds, it is crucial not to be deceived. Thundersnow can pose dangers comparable to those of a typical summer thunderstorm.
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