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What is a derecho?

Published On: Jul 28 2011 10:52:07 AM CDT

A derecho is a widespread and long-lived windstorm that is associated with a fast-moving band of severe thunderstorms.

They can produce significant damage to property and pose a serious threat life, primarily by downburst winds.

To be classified as a derecho, the path length of the storm has to be at least 280 miles long, but the widths may vary from 50-300 miles.

Derechos are usually not associated with a cold front, but a stationary front.

They occur mostly in July, but can occur at anytime during the spring and summer.