The sound itself is a shock wave created by lightning. When a lightning strike heats the air to approximately , the air rapidly expands and then contracts as it cools. This explosive movement creates the pressure wave we hear as thunder. If you'd like to explore this further, DIY tips for recording your own storm sounds. Technical file formats best suited for audio production. The Sound of Thunder - Lightning - NOAA

Thunder sounds are categorized based on their loudness, duration, and pitch:

The "thunder_sound_effect" is a staple in sound design, used to evoke everything from dramatic tension to relaxing ambiance. It is defined by its variety—ranging from sharp, immediate "claps" to long, low-frequency "rumbles"—each serving a unique purpose in media and wellness. Types of Thunder Sounds