A thundersquall is a type of weather phenomenon that involves thunderstorm activity and strong gusts of wind. Synonyms for thundersquall include thunderstorm, tempest, storm, gale, squall, and cyclone. Thunderstorms are caused by warm, moist air rising rapidly in the atmosphere, while strong winds often accompany thunderstorms as the rising air causes the surrounding air to rush quickly into the area. A tempest is a violent, windy storm, usually accompanied by rain or snow. Storms may refer to any type of severe weather event, including blizzards and hurricanes. A squall is a sudden, violent gust of wind, often accompanied by rain or snow, while a cyclone is a rotating storm system characterized by low pressure at its center.