Äikesevihm

Äikesevihm, also known as a thunderstorm or a rainstorm accompanied by thunder, is a weather phenomenon characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of lightning, thunder, and precipitation, typically in the form of rain. These events are formed within cumulonimbus clouds, which are tall, dense clouds that extend vertically through the atmosphere.

The process begins with rising warm, moist air that cools as it ascends, leading to condensation and the formation of water droplets or ice crystals. As these particles grow and collide within the cloud, they acquire electrical charges. Eventually, the charge separation becomes so great that it leads to a sudden electrical discharge, which we perceive as lightning. The rapid heating and expansion of the air around the lightning channel produce sound waves, which we hear as thunder.

Äikesevihm can vary greatly in intensity, from a brief, localized shower with distant thunder to severe storms that produce heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and even tornadoes. The precipitation associated with äikesevihm is often torrential, leading to rapid flooding in susceptible areas. These storms are common in many parts of the world, particularly during warmer months when atmospheric instability is higher. While often spectacular, äikesevihm poses risks due to lightning strikes, flash floods, and high winds.