Downburst meaning

A downburst is a strong and localized downward wind that causes damage on or near the ground.


Downburst definitions

Word backwards tsrubnwod
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division down-burst
Plural The plural of the word downburst is downbursts.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) o,u
Consonants (7) d,w,n,b,r,s,t

A downburst is a strong downdraft that causes damaging winds on or near the ground. These powerful wind gusts can result from a thunderstorm or a shower. Downbursts can be classified into two main types: microbursts and macrobursts. Microbursts are smaller in scale and shorter in duration, while macrobursts are larger and more sustained in their impact.

Downbursts are a significant concern for aviation as they can create hazardous flying conditions. Pilots are trained to recognize the signs of a downburst, such as a rapid change in wind speed and direction, and take necessary precautions to avoid dangerous situations. Wind shear, which is a sudden change in wind speed and direction over a short distance, is a common characteristic of downbursts.

Causes of Downbursts

Downbursts are typically caused by a localized cooling of air within a thunderstorm, leading to the rapid descent of cooler air. As this cool air reaches the ground, it spreads out horizontally, creating strong and potentially damaging winds. This process can be intensified by factors such as dry air entrainment, which further accelerates the downdraft.

Effects of Downbursts

The effects of a downburst can be severe, causing damage to structures, vehicles, and vegetation in its path. Downbursts are known to produce straight-line winds that can reach speeds of over 100 miles per hour, equivalent to those of a strong tornado. These winds can uproot trees, knock down power lines, and cause widespread power outages.

Downbursts are a significant meteorological phenomenon that requires careful monitoring and forecasting to mitigate their impact. Advanced weather radar systems and computer models are used to detect the conditions conducive to downbursts and provide timely warnings to the public. Understanding the dynamics of downbursts is essential for minimizing the risks associated with these powerful weather events.


Downburst Examples

  1. During the storm, a powerful downburst caused extensive damage to the neighborhood.
  2. The downburst of wind knocked over several trees in the park.
  3. Meteorologists issued a warning for potential downbursts in the area.
  4. The pilot had to navigate through a dangerous downburst while landing the plane.
  5. Residents were advised to take shelter indoors during the approaching downburst.
  6. The downburst of rain flooded the streets, causing traffic delays.
  7. After the downburst passed, many homes were left without power.
  8. The downburst created a swirling vortex of debris in the open field.
  9. In severe weather conditions, downbursts can pose a significant threat to property and safety.
  10. The sudden downburst caught everyone by surprise, resulting in chaos and confusion.


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  • Updated 18/05/2024 - 14:30:17