What is a Derecho?
A derecho is a widespread, long-lived windstorm associated with a band of rapidly moving thunderstorms. It produces straight-line winds that can cause significant damage over a large area, often hundreds of miles long and tens of miles wide.
Key Characteristics of a Derecho:
- Wind Damage: Derechos produce intense, straight-line winds that can exceed 58 mph (93 km/h), with some gusts reaching over 100 mph (160 km/h).
- Duration and Size: They typically last for several hours and can cover hundreds of miles.
- Associated Weather: Derechos are usually linked to fast-moving clusters of thunderstorms called mesoscale convective systems (MCS).
- Damage Pattern: Unlike tornadoes, which cause swirling damage, derechos cause damage in a straight line, hence the term "straight-line winds."
How Does a Derecho Form?
- They develop from a line of thunderstorms that intensify and organize into a bow-shaped or linear system.
- Strong winds from the downdrafts of thunderstorms push the system forward rapidly.
- The system sustains itself by feeding off warm, moist air and favorable atmospheric conditions.
Impact of Derechos:
- Can cause widespread destruction to trees, power lines, and buildings.
- Often result in power outages affecting millions.
- Dangerous for travel due to debris and sudden high winds.
Example:
One of the most notable derechos occurred on June 29, 2012, across the Midwest United States, causing extensive damage and power outages. If you want, I can provide more details about safety tips during a derecho or how to identify one in weather forecasts!
