EXPLAINER: What are ‘training’ thunderstorms?

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – A lot of the time when we think of thunderstorms we think of it as one fell swoop, all at the same time. But, what about training thunderstorms, and how are they different? Jack Wu with the 22News Storm Team is Working for You on what a training thunderstorm is and the dangers that can follow.

Most of the time there is one big period of a thunderstorm and it passes out of the area. But on some days there are training thunderstorms and heavy rain. When a thunderstorm is training, smaller storms will follow each other in rapid succession. It will be stormy and then there will be clarity, and then another storm will come through.

Heavy rain will continue to fall during these times. But, there may not be thunder or lightning that comes with them.

Excessive runoff can occur with these storms. There can also be some localized flash flooding. Flooding can develop quickly and become dangerous before you know it!

These conditions can make it unsafe to drive on the roads. Six inches of moving water can knock you over if you are standing, and twelve inches of moving water can lift your car and carry it away.

So, if you see flooded waters or roadways and are tempted to drive through them, be aware that even if it looks like it might just be a little bit of water, it could still be enough to put you into a serious situation.

Turn around, don’t drown!

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Jack Wu joined the 22News Storm Team in July 2023. Follow Jack on X @the_jackwu and view his bio to see more of his work.

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