Description
Interactive lesson on severe weather covering winter storms and thunderstorms, including current events and guided notes assessment.
Learning Objectives
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Understand how thunderstorms form through the interaction of warm and cool air
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Identify the four types of thunderstorms and their characteristics
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Explain how energy transfer drives weather patterns
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Connect current weather events to scientific concepts
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Apply weather knowledge to safety and preparedness
Content Preview
Preview of the PRISM content
Today we'll learn about severe weather by looking at a real winter storm affecting our region and watching a video about thunderstorm formation. Then you'll complete guided notes to check your understanding.
Historic Winter Storm Sweeps Across Southeast
Polar vortex brings record cold and significant snow to North Carolina
A massive winter storm system is impacting over 35 states, stretching more than 2,000 miles from the Southern Plains to the East Coast. Meteorologists are calling this a "generational" weather event due to its size and intensity.
This storm is bringing a combination of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures to areas that rarely experience such conditions.
In North Carolina, the Winston-Salem area is expected to receive up to 12 inches of snow. Charlotte and surrounding communities may see significant snowfall combined with ice accumulation. The ice is particularly dangerous because even small amounts (up to 0.5 inch) can bring down power lines and tree branches.
A polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding the Earth's poles. When this cold air mass moves southward, it brings extreme cold to areas not used to such temperatures. Temperatures during this storm may drop 20-40 degrees below normal.
The storm is bringing multiple hazards: heavy snow that can collapse structures, ice that makes travel impossible and damages infrastructure, and bitter cold that poses health risks. Schools and businesses across the region are closing, and residents are being urged to stay home and prepare for potential power outages.
- Stay indoors during the storm - Keep flashlights and batteries ready in case of power outages - Never use outdoor heating devices indoors - Check on elderly neighbors who may need assistance - If you must travel, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
Assessment Questions
20 questionsAccording to the news article, how many states are being impacted by this winter storm?
The storm is expected to bring up to ______ inches of snow to the Winston-Salem area.
The polar vortex causes temperatures to rise above normal.
What is the main danger from ice accumulation during winter storms?
Match each storm hazard with its effect:
Standards Alignment
Resource Details
- Subject
- Science
- Language
- EN
- Author
- USA Web School
- License
- CC-BY-4.0
- PRISM ID
- storm-lesson-2026