G6-Florida’s Summer Thunderstorms-Approaching-03

As the day goes on and tourists fill the popular sites, the warm moist air continues rising over Central Florida. As the air moves upward, it expands. This expansion causes the water vapor in the air to cool and condense. As it does, it forms chunky, cumulus clouds. The puffy clouds that look like cotton balls start to rise as the afternoon Sun continues to emit its energy.

Over the course of the afternoon, the weather is changing. What started as small puffy clouds have now reached the height of 40,000 to 60,000 ft. They may even have turned blackish or grey in color. On the ground, the tourists start to feel strong blasts of wind. These are due to strong updrafts and downdrafts related to the impending storms. If you are unlucky, you may be in the path of one of these storms. You will now be witness to Florida’s rain machine.

The typical Florida thunderstorm can release as much as 275 million gallons of water. That’s enough water to fill 416 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Most people run for cover to avoid the heavy rain. What many people do not know is the biggest threat in a thunderstorm is the lightning. Florida is actually the lightning capital of the country. Florida’s location, with warm temperatures and plenty of water, make it a perfect spot for thunderstorms. Virtually all summer rainstorms also include thunder and lighting.

No other part of the nation has more thunderstorm activity than Florida. Rain is not a requirement for lightning to strike. If you can hear thunder, you are in danger.

For the tourists coming to Florida there is a secret that the natives here all know. If they were to wait until October, the area enters a long dry period. They would have cooler temperatures and a very small chance of thunderstorms. The good news is the theme parks are well prepared for the weather. They close the rides and get people to safe locations until the thunderstorms have passed.