When we think of severe storms, images of lightning, hail, and tornadoes often come to mind. While these are certainly threats during severe weather, one of the most common and widespread dangers is wind damage from straight-line winds.
Straight-line winds can reach speeds of up to and sometimes exceeding 100 mph, making them more powerful than winds in certain tornadoes. They are responsible for fallen trees, branches, and other debris all facing the same direction, sometimes mimicking tornado damage. These winds can cover large areas and last for hours as storms progress.
Also known as gust fronts, straight-line winds are caused by warm air rising ahead of a storm, cooling down and becoming denser, then falling back down into the storm. This dense air movement can create strong horizontal winds that extend ahead of the storm cells.
During severe storms, it is crucial to stay indoors and away from windows to protect yourself from potential wind damage. Strong straight-line winds can also lead to power outages, so caution should be taken around downed power lines to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
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