Severe thunderstorms present a serious risk to both lives and property, which is why it is crucial to take warnings from the National Weather Service seriously. While tornado warnings may grab more attention, it is important not to underestimate the dangers posed by severe thunderstorms.
Severe thunderstorms are defined by the NWS as storms capable of producing hail at least 1 inch in diameter, wind gusts of at least 58 mph, or tornadoes. These storms are more common than tornadoes, with over 21,000 severe thunderstorm warnings issued by the NWS in 2024 compared to 3,635 tornado warnings.
Damaging winds from severe thunderstorms can cause significant destruction, with over 17,000 reports of severe thunderstorm winds causing damage each year. These winds can down trees, damage homes, and knock out power. In some cases, severe thunderstorms can produce a derecho, a long-lived and fast-moving complex of high winds capable of causing widespread damage.
Additionally, hail produced by severe thunderstorms can be destructive, with over 5,300 reports of severe hail in the U.S. in 2024. Hail can damage roofs, vehicles, and other property, with larger hailstones causing more significant harm.
It is important to take precautions when faced with a severe thunderstorm warning, such as seeking shelter on the lowest floor away from windows in the basement if possible. Pay attention to forecasts mentioning damaging winds or hail, and take immediate action to protect yourself and your property.
Large hailstones can cause significant damage to vehicles and homes, with the potential to punch holes in roofs and shatter windows. Thunderstorm winds can propel these hailstones, leading to destruction of siding, roofing, and windows. The St. Louis metro area experienced billion-dollar hailstorms in April 2012 and April 2001. While rare, deaths have occurred due to large hail, such as a pizza deliveryman in Fort Worth, Texas, in March 2000. In 2024, 93 people were injured by large hail in the U.S.
During severe thunderstorms with large hail threats, seek shelter indoors immediately and protect vehicles by parking in covered areas. Avoid parking under highway overpasses as it can block traffic flow and lead to dangerous situations. Tornadoes can still form unexpectedly, especially when severe thunderstorms show sudden rotation. If a tornado is possible according to a warning, treat it as a tornado warning and take necessary precautions.
Additionally, severe thunderstorms can produce frequent cloud-to-ground lightning strikes. Seek indoor shelter upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning, and avoid contact with electrical devices and metal pipes. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder to ensure safety.
As a meteorologist for weather.com since 1996, he specializes in reporting on national and international weather, with a particular interest in extreme and unusual weather phenomena. Connect with him on Bluesky (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook.
