Why Thunder and Lightning?
A simple, reassuring encyclopedia-style picture book for preschoolers that explains why thunder and lightning happen. Mia asks questions and Professor Owl uses friendly science to explain clouds, electric charge, lightning, thunder, and a simple safety tip.
Mia looks up at the dark sky. She asks why thunder and lightning happen.
Professor Owl smiles and opens his book. He says clouds can make electricity inside them.
Clouds hold tiny drops of water and bits of ice. When they move and bump, little parts can get positive or negative charge.
When the top and bottom of a cloud have different charges, a big spark can jump. That spark is lightning and it is very bright and fast.
Thunder is the sound the air makes when lightning heats it very quickly. The air grows fast and makes a loud rumble.
We see lightning before we hear thunder because light travels faster than sound. You can count seconds between the flash and the boom to guess how far the storm is.
If you hear thunder, go inside and stay away from windows. Ask an adult to help — being indoors keeps you safe.
Mia smiles and feels safer. She says 'Now I know why thunder and lightning happen'!
Read the full story
Mia looks up at the dark sky. She asks why thunder and lightning happen.
Professor Owl smiles and opens his book. He says clouds can make electricity inside them.
Clouds hold tiny drops of water and bits of ice. When they move and bump, little parts can get positive or negative charge.
When the top and bottom of a cloud have different charges, a big spark can jump. That spark is lightning and it is very bright and fast.
Thunder is the sound the air makes when lightning heats it very quickly. The air grows fast and makes a loud rumble.
We see lightning before we hear thunder because light travels faster than sound. You can count seconds between the flash and the boom to guess how far the storm is.
If you hear thunder, go inside and stay away from windows. Ask an adult to help — being indoors keeps you safe.
Mia smiles and feels safer. She says 'Now I know why thunder and lightning happen'!
