What is the difference between strong and severe t-storms?

Question

From time to time, I hear meteorologists on TV say "strong storms" and then they mention "severe storms." What's up with that?

Answer 1

Severe storms are always strong, but strong storms are not always severe.  In order to be classified as a severe thunderstorm, you have to have 35mph winds or greater, small hail or greater, and deadly lightning.  A lot of strong storms don't have the wind and hail, just lightning and torrential rains.  Also, strong is more less someone's opinion.  You might think the storm is strong but I might not think so.  

Answer 2

severe means get inside or you're likely to die

Answer 3

57.5 mph or stronger or hail 3/4 of an inch or bigger are criteria for Severe Thunderstorms, in accordance with NWS policy.

Answer 4

Technically, a severe thunderstorm is a thunderstorm that is producing hail at least 3/4 of an inch in diameter, and/or wind gusts of at least 58 mph.  There is no set criteria that defines a "strong" thunderstorm, but in most cases it is a storm that is producing conditions approaching, but not exceeding, the above severe criteria.  It should be noted the lightning frequency in storms is not a determining factor for storm severity.