Supercell
thunderstorms are the largest, most severe class of single cell thunderstorm. Supercells can evolve from a regular thunderstorm, or it can generate independently. Supercells usually produce copious amounts of
hail, torrential
rainfall, strong
winds, substantial
downdrafts, and can sometimes produce
tornadoes.
They are primarily caused by low pressure, warm, humid air that is below a colder upper layer. The warm air rises and the cold air descends, creating powerful convection currents. This convection drives the storm and generates a mesocyclone, which can cause tornadoes.
Supercells are usually seen in the Midwestern United States, but they can occur anywhere.
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