A derecho (/dəˈɹeɪ.t͡ʃoʊ/ ⓘ, from Spanish: derecho [deˈɾetʃo], 'straight') [1] is a widespread, long-lived, straight-line wind storm that is associated with a fast-moving complex of severe …

Jul 28, 2025 · To be called a derecho, the thunderstorm-generated high winds and wind damage should cover a distance of at least 250 miles long and produce at least a handful of 74+ mph …

Aug 26, 2025 · A derecho is a widespread wind event that can cause significant damage for hundreds of miles. They're most common May through August, and they can be deadly. Here, …

Jul 28, 2025 · The term derecho was coined in 1888 by University of Iowa physics professor Gustavus Hinrichs, according to NOAA. The word is Spanish for "direct" or "straight."

But instead of spiraling like a tornado or hurricane, the winds of a derecho move in straight lines. That’s where the storm gets its name; the word derecho means “straight ahead” in Spanish.

Jul 28, 2025 · What is a derecho? A derecho is a widespread windstorm often accompanied by rain or thunderstorms—and capable of producing destruction that rivals the strength of tornadoes.

Jul 10, 2025 · Derecho is a term weather-watchers like to throw around a lot in the summer. But what is it? It’s a take on the Spanish word derecho which can mean straight ahead. A derecho …

Derecho, windstorm traveling in a straight line characterized by gusts in excess of 93 km (58 miles) per hour and the production of a swath of wind-generated damage along a front …

Jul 29, 2025 · But what is a Derecho? A derecho is a widespread, long-lived windstorm associated with a band of rapidly moving thunderstorms, characterized by damaging winds …

Jun 8, 2025 · AccuWeather’s Bernie Rayno explains what a derecho is. While clusters of thunderstorms are a regular feature of late spring and summer, only a small fraction reach the …