Downdrafts

Downdrafts are fast-moving columns of air that descend from a cloud, often a thunderstorm, toward the ground. They form when cooler, denser air within the cloud sinks rapidly due to gravity, creating strong, localized winds. Downdrafts can cause sudden and severe weather effects such as gusty winds, heavy rain, and turbulence. They play a key role in storm dynamics and can contribute to the development of phenomena like microbursts, which can be hazardous to aircraft and ground activities. Essentially, downdrafts are the downward-moving air currents that help drive and shape weather patterns within thunderstorms.