Synopsis

Storms are characterized by their intensity, often marked by rain, snow, sleet, or hail. The origin of these formidable, sometimes destructive, and essential weather events—tornadoes, hurricanes, and thunderstorms—lies in the collision of vast air masses. At the boundary where these masses meet, water vapor condenses into clouds, powerful winds develop, and the clouds churn against one another. The ground may become electrically charged, poised to unleash lightning. What begins as a calm summer