How does a hurricaine compare to a thunderstorm?

Answer 1

A hurricane is much larger than a thunderstorm, typically hundreds of miles wide while a thunderstorm is usually only a few miles to a few tens of miles wide. Hurricanes also last for several days or even weeks while most thunderstorms last less than half an hour, though supercell thunderstorms may persist for several hours. Also, hurricanes, by definition, mus produce sustained winds of at least 74 mph, with some producing winds of up to 200 mph. By contrast only the most severe thunderstorms produce such winds and not for long.

In terms of formation, hurricanes can only form over warm ocean water in or near the tropics, while thunderstorms can develop over land and water and are common in both tropical and temperate climates. Finally, hurricanes are often noted for having a calm, relatively clear structure at their centers called an eye. This feature does not appear in thunderstorms.

Answer 2

A hurricane is a large, powerful storm system with sustained winds of at least 74 mph, while a thunderstorm is a localized weather event characterized by lightning, thunder, heavy rain, and sometimes hail. Hurricanes are much larger in size and strength, and can cause more widespread damage and flooding compared to a typical thunderstorm.