Meteorology Terms 101

After experiencing the powerful storms that traveled through the area yesterday, did the weatherman introduce any meteorological terms unfamiliar to you?

Wind Shear- an abrupt change in wind speed or direction which can occur at any altitude

Squall Line- unbroken line of thunderstorms that form over or ahead of fast-moving cold fronts which often produce strong straight-line winds and hail

Gust Front- is the leading edge of the cold, low-level outflow from a thunderstorm which often produces strong, gusty winds and a sudden drop temperature

Gustnado- a short-lived, circulating funnel occuring in the gust front that rarely produces damage

For more meteorological information like this, consult the following reference resource:
Schneider, Stephen H., ed. Encyclopedia of Climate and Weather. New York: Oxford University Press, 1996. Ref 551.503 En195