GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. —
The Numbers
It seems that there are fewer thunderstorms these days, and you would be correct. Since the beginning of the year Grand Rapids has only experienced seven thunderstorm days:
- March 31
- April 4, 5, 19, and 20
- May 7, and
- June 1.
This places Grand Rapids in the top 30 years with the fewest thunderstorms through June 18 (tied for 26th).
The average number of thunderstorms each year is about 33 days, with July averaging the most with about six.
The most thunderstorms in any one year occurred in 1992 with 44 days.
The fewest number of thunderstorms occurred in 1992 with only 13 days.
Which Day Has the Most Storms?
The days of the year that have recorded the most thunderstorms are:
- June 18, 30
- July 21, 23, and 30
- August 3
Why Have There Been Fewer Storms?
There are three basic ingredients needed for thunderstorm development: moisture, an unstable atmosphere, and some way to start the atmosphere moving.
It is the second ingredient that is lacking: an unstable atmosphere: the smaller the difference in temperatures between the ground and the atmosphere above the smaller the chances for thunderstorms to develop. This could be attributed to a warming atmosphere due to climate change.
Keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and climate science with the 13 On Your Side team of meteorologists.
Chief Meteorologist George Lessens
George is a graduate of Penn State University working for 13 On Your Side for over 42 years. He is a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM), a thirteen-time MAB® Weathercast Award Winner, two-time EMMY® Award Winner, NATAS® Silver Circle Award Winner, and Weather-Ready Nation® Ambassador.
Contact me at: GeorgeLessens@13OnYourSide.com
Follow me on Twitter @glessens and Facebook GeorgeLessensWZZM
Have a 30-second video or photo to share? We'd love to share it with everyone! Share your images by texting your name and location to 616.559.1310 or email to Weather@13OnYourSide.com or post it to our 13OnYourSide Facebook Page
