Macroburst

A macroburst is a powerful, localized downdraft of air from a thunderstorm, spanning a horizontal width of at least 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) at its surface impact. These events are characterized by intense straight-line winds, often exceeding 100 mph (160 km/h), causing widespread and significant damage to property and vegetation. Unlike tornadoes, macroburst winds are not cyclonic; they radiate outwards from a central point, resembling the spokes of a wheel. Their destructive potential arises from their expansive size and extreme wind speeds, making them a significant meteorological hazard. The duration of a macroburst can vary, lasting from several minutes to upwards of an hour.

Macroburst meaning with examples

• Following a severe thunderstorm warning, meteorologists tracked a developing macroburst across the rural county. The resulting winds, clocked at over 110 mph, flattened hundreds of acres of farmland, toppled massive trees, and caused extensive damage to farm buildings. Emergency services were overwhelmed with calls, responding to reports of downed power lines and structural collapses across a wide area. Residents were left without power for days as utility crews worked to repair the damage.
• The insurance company's claims department saw a surge in applications after the devastating macroburst struck the coastal town. The powerful winds ripped roofs from houses, shattered windows, and destroyed boats docked at the marina. Extensive clean-up efforts were underway for weeks as debris removal took considerable time. The widespread damage and recovery costs presented substantial financial burdens for both homeowners and the local government, showcasing the costly nature of the macroburst's wrath.
• Analyzing radar data from the storm, researchers determined the storm's microburst potential was high. As the storm matured, however, it grew into an incredibly large, long-lived macroburst system. The event was unique in its duration, persisting for nearly two hours as it swept a broad swath across the landscape, causing havoc and destruction. They collected detailed data on the wind patterns, precipitation distribution, and the duration of the event to better understand macroburst dynamics.
• During the pre-season training exercise, emergency responders simulated the aftermath of a catastrophic macroburst striking the city. The exercise involved assessing damage, coordinating search and rescue operations, and establishing communication networks in the event of widespread power outages. Participating teams practiced prioritizing aid, managing large-scale logistical challenges, and deploying resources to those most affected to streamline responses during real-world scenarios.