What is a Derecho?

Image:

If you live in the Midwest, you’ve heard of tornadoes, but every now and then odd storms pop up we’ve never heard of, like gustnadoes, microbursts and derechos. In this article we’ll talk about derechos.

A derecho (pronounced “deh-RAY-cho”) is a wind storm that usually occurs in hot and humid conditions and is associated with fast-moving rain showers or thunderstorms. It’s often referred to as line winds because it travels in one direction along a straight line. It usually extends at least 240 miles and has wind gusts of at least 58 MPH or more.

Although derechos are not as well-known as tornadoes, they can be just as destructive, leaving everything from power outages to destruction of property and injuries in their wake. In August 2020, a destructive derecho started in southeast South Dakota and northern Nebraska moved east and intensified as they moved across Iowa and into northwest Illinois. This derecho collapsed radio towers and a 150-foot communications tower, snapped power poles, blew semi-trucks off highways. A bicyclist was killed when hit by a falling tree, and many other injuries were reported.

Staying Safe During a Derecho
Derechos are difficult to predict, so advanced warning is nearly impossible. There are, however, things you can do to protect yourself. For instance, your mom wasn’t wrong when she told you to come in out of the rain. In addition, don’t plan to hike, bike or boat if severe weather is in the forecast. If thunderstorms are predicted, stay inside and be ready to enact your severe weather plan.

• Tornado or Gustnado?

  

  Was that a tornado? If not, what was it? It could have been a gustnato, and it can be hard to tell the difference.

  How to Tell

• Don't Get Blown Away!

  

  If you live in the Midwest, or if you just moved there, it’s good to know how to spot a tornado and how to prepare if one hits.
  
  

  Be Ready

• Help Either Way

  

  Whether you have damage from a tornado, gustnado or derecho, here’s what to do.
  
  

  Learn More