Draft:June 2022 Great Lakes derecho
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- Extreme Derecho**
An *extreme derecho* is a particularly powerful and destructive type of derecho, characterized by exceptionally high wind speeds and widespread damage. These events can produce wind gusts exceeding 100 mph, comparable to the strength of a Category 3 or higher hurricane. Unlike typical derechos, which typically affect localized areas, extreme derechos can span over 500 miles, causing extensive damage across large regions. The destructive power of an extreme derecho can result in catastrophic damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and the environment, with the potential to impact millions of people.
The winds associated with extreme derechos can uproot trees, destroy buildings, and cause widespread power outages. These intense winds can also cause significant agricultural damage, particularly in the Midwest United States, where crops can be flattened across vast swaths of land. In addition to straight-line winds, extreme derechos can also produce tornadoes, further increasing the severity of the storm. The damage caused by these storms is often uniform and widespread, with debris and fallen trees typically arranged in a straight line, distinguishing them from tornadoes, which produce more irregular patterns of destruction.
Extreme derechos are difficult to predict due to the complex atmospheric conditions required for their formation. Meteorologists monitor factors such as high wind shear, warm and moist air masses, and strong thunderstorm development to identify potential risks. However, due to their rapid onset and large-scale impact, extreme derechos can be challenging to forecast accurately. The severity and duration of these storms make them among the most powerful and destructive wind events, with significant economic and human costs. Despite their rarity, extreme derechos are considered one of the most dangerous weather phenomena.