Thunderstorms (Day 2) - Sam Andersen

Hi again Grandma and Grandpa,



The thunderstorm here in Delaware is still raging on... boring (I really want to go outside), but I can't because this storm is a Supercell (a rare thunderstorms), which means that the winds can reach 100+ mph, can produce hail of OVER 2 in, and can create strong to violent tornadoes! Right now Northern Maryland just has a thunderstorm watch while we have a severe thunderstorm warning. The major difference between a watch and a warning is that a watch is when the conditions for a thunderstorm or any other severe type of weather are favorable for it's development. In this case it's warm, humid, and two fronts are supposed to collide in Northern Maryland, which is favorable for a thunderstorm to develop. While here in Delaware someone spotted the thunderstorm so it is a thunderstorm warning.

As I told you in my last letter we were preparing for this storm and now all of our preparations are in place and they seem to be working as they should, no rain, or drafts in the house. Also there was supposed to be a tornado touching down about twenty miles away but as you know we're prepared for everything. If a thunderstorm ever comes down to Florida near you guys you should have an EPK (or Emergency Preparedness Kit) and know what not to do during a storm like this. In your EPK you should have some flashlights, a blanket, some non-perishable food, and a weather radio (battery powered), so that you will be fine until power is restored, or the storm ends. When a thunderstorm is in the area you should unplug all appliances, shutdown and unplug your computers and electronics, lock your shutters and windows, use a weather radio, and DO NOT use a corded telephone (cell phones and wireless phones are O.K.). You should also make sure that you guys have some shelter to go to (building, home, or hard top car).



Now that you guys know all of this I'm sure that you'll be fine but if you want to learn more check out the site here to learn about the types of thunderstorms and what happens during them.



I'll write again soon,



Sam