how far away can you hear thunder

The distance at which you can hear thunder depends on several factors, including the intensity of the lightning, the type of terrain, and the atmospheric conditions. Generally, thunder can be heard up to 10 miles (16 kilometers) away, but it’s usually much closer.

Here’s a rough estimate of the distance at which you can hear thunder based on the time between the lightning flash and the thunder:

* 5 seconds or less: The lightning is within 1 mile (1.6 kilometers)
* 10-15 seconds: The lightning is within 2-3 miles (3.2-4.8 kilometers)
* 30 seconds: The lightning is within 6 miles (9.7 kilometers)
* 1 minute or more: The lightning is 10 miles (16 kilometers) or more away

Keep in mind that these estimates are rough and can vary depending on the specific conditions. It’s also worth noting that the speed of sound is approximately 768 miles per hour (1,236 kilometers per hour) at sea level, so the time between the lightning flash and the thunder can give you an idea of how far away the lightning is.

It’s also important to remember that if you can hear thunder, it means the lightning is close enough to pose a threat, and you should take necessary precautions to stay safe.