What Is a Derecho, and How to Stay Safe.

The article focuses on an impending derecho, a rare and destructive widespread windstorm accompanied by rain or thunderstorms, expected to impact the northern Plains and Upper Midwest of the U.S. on July 28. Derechos are characterized by intense wind speeds over large areas, with wind gusts of at least 58 mph over a distance of 240 miles, and can cause damage comparable to tornadoes. The storm is driven by the interaction of hot, humid air and cooler air masses, and previous derechos have caused significant power outages, fatalities, and billions in damages. Safety recommendations include staying indoors in interior rooms away from windows, heeding National Weather Service warnings, charging devices, and having multiple ways to receive weather alerts in case of power outages.