So it's important to pay attention when you hear thunder. Thunderstorms happen in every state, and every thunderstorm has lightning. Lightning can strike people and buildings and is very dangerous.
Thunderstorms affect small areas when compared with hurricanes and winter storms.
The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes. Nearly 1,800 thunderstorms are happening at any moment around the world. Despite their small size, all thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can lead to .