Understanding Severe Weather
Winter Storms & Thunderstorms
Learning Objectives
Understand how thunderstorms form through the interaction of warm and cool air
Identify the four types of thunderstorms and their characteristics
Explain how energy transfer drives weather patterns
Connect current weather events to scientific concepts
Apply weather knowledge to safety and preparedness
Introduction
~1 minutesToday 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.
Current Event: Winter Storm
~5 minutesHistoric 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
According 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:
Thunderstorms 101 Video
~5 minutesWhat causes warm air to rise during thunderstorm formation?
The rising of warm air in a thunderstorm is called an ______.
Thunderstorm clouds can grow as tall as ______ miles high.
What brings rain down from thunderstorm clouds?
There are four main types of thunderstorms.
Which type of thunderstorm is the most intense and dangerous?
Lightning is the rapid transfer of electrical ______.
What produces the sound of thunder?
Match each thunderstorm type with its description:
About ______ thunderstorms occur worldwide at any given moment.
Guided Notes
~15 minutesHow does the polar vortex relate to the winter storm discussed in the news article?
Energy transfer from warm areas to cold areas drives ______ patterns.
Both ice storms and thunderstorms involve precipitation falling from clouds.
What safety precaution applies to BOTH winter storms and thunderstorms?
Why is understanding weather science important for communities?