What is a Microburst?

A microburst is a small but intense downdraft of air that rapidly descends from a thunderstorm and spreads outward upon reaching the ground. These wind events can generate damaging gusts exceeding 100 mph, rivaling the strength of tornadoes over a localized area. Microbursts typically last only 5 to 15 minutes but can cause significant destruction.

There are two types of microbursts: wet and dry. Wet microbursts occur with heavy rainfall, while dry microbursts happen when rain evaporates before reaching the ground, cooling the air and causing a violent downdraft. Both types can uproot trees, overturn vehicles, and damage roofs or above-ground structures.

In areas prone to severe weather, storm shelters and safe rooms provide critical protection against microbursts. Unlike tornadoes, which have a distinct rotation, microbursts create straight-line winds that can flatten buildings. Homeowners in storm-prone regions should ensure their shelter is securely anchored to withstand extreme wind forces.

Microbursts are also hazardous to aviation, as the sudden wind shifts can cause aircraft to lose lift, leading to dangerous situations during takeoff and landing. Understanding microbursts and preparing for them is crucial for safety in severe weather events.