STORMS

Storms are a meteorological event that can be studied to advance the science of meteorology. The study of storms can potentially save lives as scientists gain a better understanding of their nature. Learn more about storms here.

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How do rescue teams search a flooded city?

When a hurricane or flash flood strikes a city, it can leave residents stranded in their cars, homes or other buildings waiting for rescue. How do rescue teams know where to go first?

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Is there really a "calm before the storm"?
The birds stop chirping, and the wind chimes are silent. This eerie calm that's invaded your neighborhood is just a temporary pause before the shrills and shrieks of the incoming storm. See more »
The Science of Storms
Storms can change lives in minutes. They can alter the landscape and raze homes in the blink of an eye. Why do storms spring up, and which ones are the most ferocious of all? See more »

The Ultimate Rainbow Quiz
You may think you know rainbows, but do you really know rainbows? HowStuffWorks.com is willing to bet you don't. We have more tidbits about refracted light than you've had hot meals, so step right up if you're feeling knowledgeable and prepare to get schooled in seven separate hues. See more »
Was there really a great flood?
Many cultures have a flood myth -- an ancient story of a deluge that swallowed the Earth. So could a great flood really have happened, and how would we be able to tell? See more »
What if I were struck by lightning?
Being struck by lightning is a little more complicated than a sudden collision with a flash of light from the sky. How can someone survive such a jolt? See more »
What’s a nor’easter?
"Nor'easter" is one of those words that makes you think of an old mariner scanning the horizon for a pending storm. What does it really mean -- and why don't we say "northeaster"? See more »
Who were the first storm chasers?
When the weather radio sends the ominous signal that a tornado is near, most people run for cover. But some die-hard adventurers get their jollies by chasing these violent storms. Who started this dangerous hobby? See more »
Why are hurricanes with female names deadlier than ones with male names?
The most damaging hurricanes usually have female names. Is this a case of gender bias, or is some other force at work? See more »
Why are there more thunderstorms during the summer?
Around 1,800 thunderstorms are occurring on the Earth at any given time. However, they typically only occur in the warmer parts of the planet. Why does warm weather spawn more thunderstorms than colder weather? See more »
Why would someone fly an airplane into a hurricane?
It may seem like a perfectly reckless display of aeronautical wiles, but guiding an airplane into a swirling beast of a hurricane gleans data that can save lives. The only question is, who were the crazy mavericks who attempted it first? See more »

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