You have to be careful when playing outside in the winter. Sometimes, there will be thundersnow. So, what is thunder snow, and what causes thunder and lightning during snow? Read the explanation below so you don’t get shocked when it comes to your area.
What is Thunder Snow
Just like its name, thunder snow is a clap of thunder that appears in winter. Instead of rain, this thunder is followed by snow falling. It is a rarer phenomenon compared to usual thunder. Thunder snow happens because cold air passes through the more relatively warm water.
You can see this phenomenon more often in the Great Lakes area of the United States and Canada, the Midwestern United States, Oklahoma, and the Great Salt Lake. Those who stay in Halifax, Nova Scotia, New England, and New York can see this thunder more than those who live in other areas. It even appears several times per winter season. Based on the cause and the time the thunder appears, it mostly happens in March.
Is Thunder Snow Dangerous?
Yes, thundersnow can cause a greater destructive potential than other common lightning. During the process, it produces heavy snowfall rates up to 2 to 4 inches per hour. In this condition, it will be difficult for you to see the surroundings.
It is even hard to walk because everything is covered by snow, including the road. Due to the heavy snowfall, the snow is thickening so fast. This condition may happen around 3 to 4 hours. Indeed, the temperature drastically drops and it is even cooler than in the usual winter.
This condition can cause a condition known as frostbite. It is a skin wound caused by extremely low temperatures. It makes your skin and tissues freeze. This condition often affects your fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.
What Are the Signs when Thundersnow is About to Come?
You should check the sky and surroundings to know the signs when thundersnow is about to come. For example, be careful if you see large and puffy cumulus clouds come into your area. It can be an earlier sign that a thundersnow storm will be coming soon.
The thundersnow storm is getting closer when the sky and clouds are suddenly darker than before. You should go home before it’s too late. You can confirm that it is a thundersnow storm if your area is drastically cooler than before and the wind direction suddenly changes.
How Rare is Thunder Snow?
You may not know what is thunder snow yet because it is a rare thunder. This thunder doesn’t always happen in winter. It only happens when the condition that creates thundersnow occurs. So, how many times does thundersnow appear in a year? Based on the report, people only see this thunder approximately about 6.3 per year. It is how rare is thunder snow compared to usual thunder.
What Are the Benefits of a Thundersnow Storm?
Despite its destructive characteristics, a thundersnow storm still has benefits. For example, there will be plenty of water after the storm and it helps a lot during the summer. Indeed, it may destroy some plants and trees but most of them receive enough water to grow well after the storm.
Thundersnow storms can also reduce the hot temperature. Remember! The temperature drops when the storm is about to come. The wind can also swipe away the pollutants from the area.
How If You Get Caught in a Thundersnow Storm?
Outside
Things you should do when getting caught in a thundersnow storm depend on your position. When you are outside the house, ensure that you find shelter right away. Try to stay dry and find something to cover your body parts to prevent frostbite. How about if there is no shelter? You need to build something, such as a snow cave immediately. Build it right away before the wind comes.
Never looking for shelter under a tree by itself. Thunder often hits tall objects, including trees. It will be so dangerous if you are under the tree. Then, try to create a fire. Fire is crucial not only to make you warm but also to attract people’s attention so they can help you.
In case you are thirsty, melt snow and drink the water. It helps you get warm water to keep your body warm. Never eat snow because it drastically drops your body temperature.
Try to move the part of your body, such as your arms, legs, fingers, and toes. This simple movement can keep you warm and prevent your body from suffering from frostbite.
In Vehicles
How about if you are in a vehicle during a thundersnow storm? Remain calm! Ensure that other people or your parents know where you are going. As a result, they can look for you once they know there is a thundersnow storm in your area.
Ensure that your parents bring their mobile phone and emergency supplies kit in the car. It is the same case if your parents let you bring a mobile phone. You can call them and ask for help. Never leave the vehicle because it is so dangerous outside.
Inside a Building
It is your luck if you are at home with your parents during the thundersnow storm. The best thing you can do is stay inside while doing something to keep warm. Help your parents to burn wood in the fireplace or wood stove if it is necessary. If it is not, stay inside the room and cover your body up with a blanket, a jacket, and anything.
You can also bring some snacks or food and eat them while waiting for the storm. Your body will turn the food you eat into energy and makes your body warm. Stay away from water or electricity during a snowstorm.
That’s why you should not turn on the television or your mobile phone during a thunderstorm and a snowstorm. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration because cold air is so dry. Then, wait until the storm ends.
Things You Should Do After the Thundersnow Storm
So, what should you do after a thunderstorm? Is it okay for you to go outside? Indeed, you can’t go outside even after the thunder snow storm has gone. Let your parents check the condition and ensure that everything is safe. You can stay in the room until your parents allow you to come out.
Now, you know what is thunder snow storm is and how to deal with it. The key is to remain calm and do anything to keep you warm and safe until the storm is gone.
