Orages - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Orages, also known as thunderstorms, are powerful weather events characterized by thunder, lightning, heavy rain, and sometimes hail.
- 2. They are caused by the rapid upward movement of warm, moist air that cools and condenses into clouds, eventually leading to the formation of thunderstorms.
- 3. Thunderstorms can occur in any part of the world, but are most common in areas with warm, humid climates, such as the tropics and subtropics.
- 4. The severity of a thunderstorm is measured on a scale called the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which ranges from EF0 (least severe) to EF5 (most severe).
- 5. Lightning is a common occurrence during thunderstorms, and can be extremely dangerous. It is estimated that lightning strikes the Earth's surface about 100 times per second.
- 6. Heavy rain during thunderstorms can lead to flash flooding, which can cause significant damage to property and pose a threat to human life.
- 7. Hail is another common feature of thunderstorms, and occurs when updrafts in the storm carry raindrops to high altitudes where they freeze into ice pellets.
- 8. Tornadoes can also occur during severe thunderstorms, and are characterized by a rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm cloud to the ground.
- 9. Thunderstorms can produce strong winds, with gusts reaching speeds of over 50 mph. These winds can cause damage to buildings, trees, and power lines.
- 10. It is important to take precautions during thunderstorms, such as seeking shelter indoors, staying away from windows and doors, and avoiding electrical appliances and plumbing fixtures.