Thunderstorms typically consist of very high winds, rain, lightning, and in many cases hail. Typically the larger the hail is, the stronger the thunderstorm is. Tornado formation is most likely to occur where the hail falls. Another dangerous aspect of a thunderstorm is lightning. The best protection from lightning is to seek shelter in a nearby building.
Flooding can also occur in low areas and in areas where storm drains are blocked.
It is also no surprise that severe thunderstorms can produce damaging winds with or without forming tornados. Near the ground lies a layer of warm and humid air along with strong south winds. Colder air and strong west or southwest winds lie in the upper atmosphere. Temperature and moisture differences between the surface and the upper levels create what is called instability, while the change in wind with height is known as wind shear. This shear is linked to the eventual development of rotation from which a tornado may form.