Bow echoes associated with squall lines or mesoscale convective systems can produce widespread damage. Microbursts Severe thunderstorms can create incredible violence as they pass over an area. Among their most devastating aspects are Down bursts. A downburst is a severe localized wind blasting down from a thunderstorm. These strong downward currents are classified by meteorologists as microbursts if the downburst covers an area less than 2.5 miles in diameter and as macrobursts if the down burst covers an area of at least 2.5 miles in diameter.
Wind shear is any sudden change of speed or direction in wind flow.
Since a microburst is a sudden vertical drop of air, it produces considerable wind shear. Some thunderstorms can be seen approaching, while others hit without warning. It is important to learn and recognize the danger signs and to plan ahead. Dark, towering, or threatening clouds. Distant lightning and thunder.