What Does Isolated Or Scattered Thunderstorms Mean? - WRAL

WeatherWhat does isolated or scattered thunderstorms mean?

The difference between scattered and isolated is in the extent of coverage and the associated likelihood, or probability, of measurable precipitation associated with the storms.

Posted 5:21 p.m. Nov 2, 2016 — Updated 3:28 p.m. Nov 3, 2016isolated scattered thunderstorms differenceBy Mike Moss

What's the difference between isolated thunderstorms and scattered thunderstorms?

Mike Moss: The difference between different types, categories or descriptions of scattered and isolated thunderstorms is in the extent of weather forecast coverage and the associated likelihood, or probability, of measurable rain or related precipitation associated with the thunderstorm or storm. Isolated activity means that only about 5-20% of the forecast area is expected to be covered at any one time, meaning their can be spots of stormy weather and clearer spots. The term "scattered" equates to coverage of around 30-50%, and thus a better chance of a storm occurring a given location.

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