What is a derecho? An atmospheric scientist explains these rare but dangerous storm systems
- Written by Russ Schumacher, Associate Professor of Atmospheric Science and Colorado State Climatologist, Colorado State University
A derecho moves across central Kansas on July 3, 2005.Jim Reed/Corbis via Getty ImagesThunderstorms are common across North America, especially in warm weather months. About 10% of them become severe, meaning they produce hail 1 inch or greater in diameter, winds gusting in excess of 50 knots (57.5 miles per hour), or a tornado.
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