Most people are used to having thunderstorms over the summer months. However, thunder in the winter is not nearly as common. In 2011, Chicago was highlighted on The Weather Channel when thundersnow surprised meteorologist Jim Cantore. Let’s examine what it is and what causes snow thunder.
What is Thundersnow?
A thunderstorm in the summer is typically a tall and narrow storm in which warm, moist air travels upward from the surface of the earth to 40,000 feet or higher. A regular snowstorm is caused generally by a flat cloud that is below 20,000 feet. This does not allow upward and downward motions of a typical thunderstorm.
However, when the snowstorm is created by lake-effect snow, the clouds are formed when air moves over a warm lake. Therefore the clouds are more narrowly shaped and have upward bumps that stick up above the rest of the snow cloud. Winds at the higher altitudes continue to cool the air causing instability. If the conditions are right, both snowflakes and small hailstones will form and interact causing electrical charges to develop.
During a 2011 thundersnow storm in Chicago, the lightning bolts actually went upward between the tall buildings and the clouds. It is actually not common for the lightning to reach the ground during a thunder snowstorm so this was a very rare event.
How Much Snow in Snow Thunder?
Thunder snow tends to result in significant snow accumulation. A study conducted by the University of Missouri indicated that 6 inches of snow generally accumulated within a 70 mile radius of a thunder snowstorm. Snow fall is typically at a fast rate such as two or more inches per hour. High winds are also common.
Can I See Lightning During a Thunder Snow Storm?
Unfortunately it is unlikely that you will see lightning during a thunder snow storm. First, you must be in the right place when a rare thunder snow event is going to happen. It is estimated that only 6 snow thunder events occur in the United States each year. The best locations to experience thundersnow are in Wolf Creek Pass, Colorado and on the Eastern shore of Lake Ontario.
Second, in most cases, it is not possible to see the lightning surrounding thundersnow because unlike summer storms, the sky is bright and white. You may hear a rumble of thunder but the significant snow will muffle the sound of the thunder so typically it is only audible within a couple of miles.
Why is a snow removal company writing about Thunder Snow? We love all things snow-related. And along with plowing snow, we focus heavily on winter weather monitoring and communicating with clients. If you have a business in the greater Chicago area, consider Brancato Snow and Ice Management for your snow removal needs.