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The Thunderstorm Distance Calculator estimates how far away a thunderstorm is based on the time difference between seeing lightning and hearing thunder. This calculation uses the speed of sound to determine distance.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: Sound travels at approximately 343 meters per second in air at 20°C. By measuring the time delay, we can calculate the distance to the lightning strike.
Details: Calculating thunderstorm distance is important for safety purposes. It helps determine if a storm is approaching or moving away, and provides warning of potential danger from lightning strikes.
Tips: Enter the time difference in seconds between when you see lightning and hear thunder. The time must be a positive value. For best accuracy, use a stopwatch to measure the time precisely.
Q1: Why use 343 m/s for sound speed?
A: 343 meters per second is the approximate speed of sound in dry air at 20°C. The actual speed can vary with temperature and humidity.
Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides a good estimate, but actual distance may vary due to atmospheric conditions, temperature, and humidity affecting sound speed.
Q3: When should I be concerned about lightning?
A: Generally, if the distance is less than 10 km, you should seek shelter. The "30-30 rule" suggests seeking shelter if time between lightning and thunder is 30 seconds or less.
Q4: Does elevation affect the calculation?
A: Yes, sound travels slightly slower at higher altitudes due to lower air density and temperature changes.
Q5: Can I use this for other sound distance calculations?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to any situation where you can measure the time between seeing an event and hearing the sound it produces.