Shelby Mac from News Channel 2 visited the 6th graders to teach them about severe weather and how to stay safe. She explained how thunderstorms form when warm, moist air rises and creates large cumulonimbus clouds, which produce rain, lightning, and sometimes severe conditions. Students learned about the key ingredients of severe storms, including wind shear, lift, instability, and moisture.
The presentation also covered different types of severe weather, such as hail, lightning, flooding, strong winds, and tornadoes. Shelby Mac described how tornadoes form from rotating storms and explained how scientists classify them. She emphasized important safety tips, including going indoors during storms, staying away from windows, and moving to a safe, interior space during a tornado warning. Students also learned how to track storms and receive alerts using weather apps and radios.
Overall, the visit helped students better understand weather patterns and the importance of being prepared and staying safe during severe weather events.