pourdown

Pourdown is a term used to describe a rapid and intense fall of precipitation. It typically refers to rain that descends heavily and quickly, often in a short period of time. This type of rainfall can lead to a significant increase in water levels in rivers and streams, and can also cause flash flooding in low-lying areas. Pourdowns are often associated with thunderstorms and can be accompanied by strong winds and lightning. While not a formal meteorological term, "pourdown" is a common colloquialism used to convey the severity of a downpour. The intensity of a pourdown is often measured by the rate of rainfall, with very heavy rainfall rates indicating a pourdown. The duration can vary, from a few minutes to several hours, but the defining characteristic is the sheer volume of water falling in a concentrated period. These events can have both positive and negative impacts, replenishing water sources but also posing risks of flooding and erosion.