A thunderstorm produces various sounds, and the primary sound associated with thunderstorms is thunder. Thunder is created as a result of rapid heating and cooling of the air surrounding a lightning bolt. When a lightning bolt travels through the atmosphere, it rapidly heats the air around it, causing it to expand quickly. This rapid expansion creates a shockwave that moves through the air, producing a booming sound we hear as thunder.
The reason we often hear thunder after seeing lightning is because light travels much faster than sound. Since light travels at a speed of approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (186,282 miles per second), we see the flash of lightning almost instantly. However, sound travels at a much slower speed of about 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second) in dry air at room temperature. As a result, it takes some time for the sound of thunder to reach our ears, and that delay is why we often hear the thunderclap after seeing the lightning.
The specific sound of thunder can vary based on a few factors, such as the distance from the lightning strike, the atmospheric conditions, and the terrain. Thunder can range from a loud, booming noise to a low rumble, or even a crackling or sizzling sound. The sound can also echo or reverberate off surrounding structures, hills, or mountains, which can affect how it reaches our ears.
In addition to thunder, thunderstorms can produce other sounds such as heavy rain, gusty winds, and hail. Rainfall can create a steady, rhythmic sound as it hits various surfaces. Strong winds blowing through trees or buildings can produce howling or whistling sounds. Hail can also create a distinctive sound as the ice pellets strike the ground or other objects.
Overall, the combination of lightning, thunder, rain, wind, and hail creates the characteristic sounds we associate with thunderstorms.