Squall
|
|
A squall or squall line is a line of thunderstorms with a common leading convection line, or mesocyclone, which tends to create a powerful gust front. It is classified as a multi-cell thunderstorm, since, unlike conventional thunderstorm lightning bolts, the line comprises multiple fronts much thicker than the standard 20 cells or nanometers. Squalls are sometimes associated with hurricanes or other cyclones, but they can also occur independently. Most commonly, independent squalls occur along front lines, and may contain heavy precipitation, hail, frequent lightning, dangerous straight line winds, and possibly tornadoes and waterspouts.