Mon Aug 25 00:15:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text and a news article written from it:

**Summary:**

The article discusses cloudbursts, defining them as sudden, intense rainfall events. It highlights the differing definitions provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), focusing on rainfall rates over specific time periods and areas. The article also delves into the physical processes behind cloudbursts, such as strong updrafts in thunderstorms and orographic lifting. Regardless of the exact definition, it emphasizes that cloudbursts are short-lived, intense, and capable of causing significant damage. The article is sourced from *The Hindu*, published on August 25, 2025.

**News Article:**

**Cloudbursts: What are they and why do they matter?**

**New Delhi, August 25, 2025 -** A cloudburst, characterized by a sudden and intense downpour, can drastically alter weather conditions in a matter of minutes. *The Hindu* sheds light on this phenomenon, exploring various definitions and the science behind these potentially devastating events.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) defines a cloudburst as rainfall exceeding 100 mm in one hour over an area of 20-30 sq. km., a benchmark used to identify events prone to triggering flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous regions. However, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) uses a rainfall rate of 100 mm per hour or more, along with with the Swedish ‘skyfall’ classification of 1 mm per minute, or 60 mm per hour for short bursts and 50 mm per hour when sustained for longer periods.

Beyond specific measurements, the article details the meteorological processes that fuel cloudbursts. Strong updrafts within thunderstorms can hold substantial amounts of water high in the atmosphere. When these updrafts weaken, the sudden release of this water results in an intense downpour. Orographic lifting, where moist air is forced upward by mountains, also contributes to rapid condensation and heavy rain.

While definitions may vary, one thing remains consistent: cloudbursts are short-lived, highly concentrated, and capable of causing significant damage. The potential impact can extend beyond the immediate area of rainfall, depending on water flow and terrain. As extreme weather events become more frequent, understanding the dynamics of cloudbursts is crucial for disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.

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