Episode description

The state of Florida is famous for its sunshine, beaches, and summertime fun. However, as Floridians, we know that summer also means thunderstorms, and thunder doesn’t happen without lightning. 

In this episode, we will explore the basic science of lightning and thunder, and how you can keep yourself safe this summer. We hope this brief introduction to thunderstorms in Florida will help you feel more informed and prepared for our summer rainy season.

• Understanding Lightning: Thunderstorm Electrification - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-science-electrification
• Severe Weather 101: Frequently Asked Questions About Lightning - www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/lightning/faq
• Understanding Lighting: Thunder - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-science-thunder

• Share what you learned with a friend!
• Remember these sayings: "NO Place Outside Is Safe When Thunderstorms Are In The Area!", "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!, and "Half An Hour Since Thunder Roars, Now It’s Safe To Go Outdoors!"
• Educate yourself and others with these lightning safety tips and resources - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning

• Understanding Lightning: Thunderstorm Electrification - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-science-electrification
• Severe Weather 101: Frequently Asked Questions About Lightning - www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/lightning/faq
• Understanding Lighting: Thunder - www.weather.gov/safety/lightning-science-thunder
• Clouds – How Do They Form? - www.weather.gov/source/zhu/ZHU_Training_Page/clouds/cloud_development/clouds.htm
• Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering 780, Chandima Gomes (Editor). “Lighting - Science, Engineering, and Economic Implications for Developing Countries”. Springer.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend who might enjoy learning about Florida's natural areas and the wild things that live here!

Thunderstorm sound clips licensed from Bidgee, CC BY-SA 3.0 AU, via Wikimedia Commons