Squall

A squall is a sudden, localized, and intense increase in wind speed, often accompanied by rain, snow, or sleet. It is a brief but severe weather event, usually lasting for minutes rather than hours. Squalls can be dangerous to mariners, pilots, and anyone caught outdoors. They are often characterized by a rapid shift in wind direction and a significant drop in visibility. A squall is a convective phenomenon, typically associated with thunderstorms or strong atmospheric instability, where the warm and humid air rushes up and cools down. It is important to understand and observe the squall as a dangerous meteorological event.

Squall meaning with examples

• The sailboat was suddenly hit by a violent squall, its sails billowing precariously. Rain lashed down as the wind howled, causing the crew to frantically furl the sails to avoid capsizing. Visibility dropped to near zero, and the boat pitched wildly in the turbulent waves, with each crew member praying for the squall to end.
• Hiking in the mountains, they enjoyed sunshine until a sudden squall rolled in. Dark clouds quickly obscured the sky, followed by heavy rain and strong gusts of wind. The hikers scrambled for shelter, finding refuge under a rocky overhang as the unexpected squall passed, leaving them cold and soaked but thankful.
• The pilot reported encountering a severe squall during the descent. The aircraft experienced significant turbulence, and the windshield wipers struggled to clear the heavy rain. Despite the challenges, the pilot successfully navigated the plane through the squall and landed safely at the airport, much to the relief of the passengers.
• As the fishing boat ventured further from shore, a sudden squall blew in, causing waves to swell and the boat to rock violently. The crew battled the storm, bailing out water and struggling to maintain their course, until the squall abated, leaving behind a calm, peaceful sea.
• During the night, a sudden squall woke the campers. Rain lashed the tent, and strong winds threatened to tear it away. The campers huddled together, listening to the storm's fury, until, as abruptly as it began, the squall passed, leaving a trail of wet leaves and a refreshed morning.