AND STORMS
STORMS A storm is a disturbed state of the atmosphere. It is marked by strong winds, rain, sleet, hail, and lightning. Thunderstorms, windstorms, and cyclones are different types of storms.
Thunderstorms When hot, moist air is carried to great heights by the strong updraft in a rain- bearing cloud, the water vapor condenses. Then heavy rain, thunder, and lightning occur along with strong wind, and sometimes hail. This is a thunderstorm.
Meteorologists and mariners consider winds to be at storm strength when they reach a speed of 73 miles (117 kilometers) per hour. Windstorms, or gales, have little or no precipitation.