The storms They are natural displays of energy that can be both beautiful and dangerous. Although they are common weather phenomena, there is a world of fascinating facts about them that many people don't know. In this article, we will explore 12 curiosities about storms that can change your perception of these natural spectacles.
Lightning can strike airplanes
Yes, lightning can indeed strike airplanes during a storm. However, there's no reason to be alarmed, as airplanes are designed to handle these events. The outer shell of the airplane is made of aluminum, a metal that conducts electricity, allowing the electrical discharge to circulate across its surface without entering the cabin. This is known as the principle of lightning. Faraday cageThis principle prevents passengers and crew from being exposed to electricity. However, it is crucial that the aircraft maintain its structural integrity. In 1963, an incident occurred on a PanAm aircraft where a lack of maintenance compromised this protection.
You shouldn't do certain things during a storm
When a storm approaches, it's crucial to take precautionary measures. For example, many people have heard that they shouldn't touch wet metal objects, such as electrical outlets. This is because water is an excellent conductor of electricity and can cause serious damage upon contact with the human body. During a storm, it's advisable to avoid the use of household appliances, mobile phones and landlines To prevent accidents, the best option is to seek shelter in a safe place.
To learn more about how thunderstorms affect people, you can check out our in-depth article on the topic.
Storms occur even in summer
It's easy to think that thunderstorms are exclusive to fall or spring, but they can actually occur at any time of year, including summer. This is because in summer, warm air becomes lighter and rises quickly, encountering cold air masses in the atmosphere, which causes the condensation of water droplets and the formation of storm clouds. This contrast between warm and cold air is what triggers these storms, which although usually brief, can be very intense.
Interesting facts about lightning
Lightning is one of the most striking aspects of thunderstorms. Some little-known facts include:
- Extreme temperature: Lightning can reach temperatures of up to 30,000 degrees Celsius, which is hotter than the surface of the Sun.
- Power: The energy from a single lightning strike is enough to toast approximately 4,000 slices of bread. Its power is estimated at 30 million volts.
- Fossil rays: When lightning strikes a sandy surface, it can melt the silica creating structures known as fulgurites which are the physical trace of lightning.
- “Sleeping” rays: These are rays that strike trees and do not cause immediate damage, but can cause them to burn hours or days later, posing a danger in forest fires.
- Faraday cage: This phenomenon explains why airplanes are not seriously affected by lightning strikes. The electrical energy is distributed across the surface of the airplane, preventing it from penetrating the cabin.
Where do storms occur most frequently?
There are places around the world that are particularly famous for their storm activity. A notable example is the Catatumbo Lightning In Venezuela, where more than 260 days of thunderstorms occur annually, generating an astonishing number of lightning strikes. This phenomenon occurs due to the combination of unique geographic and climatic factors that favor the constant formation of storms.
You can also read about places with largest thunderstorms and its impact on the environment.
In addition to Venezuela, other places in the world are also known for their high frequency of thunderstorms, such as some regions of India and Democratic Republic of CongoThese places, with high temperatures and humidity, provide an environment conducive to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, which cause thunderstorms.
The relationship between climate change and storms
A study from the University of California suggests that as global temperatures rise, the number of thunderstorms is also expected to increase. It is estimated that every one degree Celsius increase in global temperature could increase the frequency of lightning by 12%. This is noteworthy, given that temperatures are expected to rise in the coming decades due to global warming.
For a deeper analysis on how the global warming is influencing the weather, feel free to visit our related article.
The relationship between pollution and increased lightning remains an active area of research, with significant implications for weather forecasting and public safety.
The impacts of storms on everyday life
Storms are not just meteorological phenomena; they also have repercussions on everyday life and the environment.
- Risks to people: Thunderstorms can cause serious injuries. The lifetime probability of being struck by lightning is estimated to be approximately 1 in 1.2 million, although this rate varies depending on location.
- Economic impact: Storms can cause significant property damage. Insurance companies are estimated to pay out millions in claims related to lightning damage, for example, with the average cost of a lightning claim reaching $7,000.
- Damage to infrastructure: The energy released by lightning can cause short circuits and structural damage, posing a risk to buildings and other infrastructure.
For more information on effects of thunderstorms, you can visit the linked article.
Storm Safety Tips
For those who find themselves in a storm situation, it is essential to take appropriate precautions to minimize risk:
- Avoid showers: Water can conduct electricity, so it's best not to shower during a storm.
- Do not stay under trees: Although it may be tempting to take shelter, trees are prone to being struck by lightning.
- Seek shelter indoors: The risk of being struck by lightning is reduced inside a home or vehicle.
It is always advisable to be aware of the danger zones during thunderstorms to maintain good personal security.
Atmospheric phenomena such as thunderstorms are impressive and often dangerous. How they develop, the associated risks, and safety measures are important topics of study, especially as our understanding of climate and its changes evolves. Enjoying the beauty of a storm must be accompanied by the responsibility to act appropriately to protect oneself.
