Which weather phenomenon is characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall?

The phenomenon characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall is a squall line. Squall lines are often associated with thunderstorms and can produce severe weather conditions, including intense wind gusts and heavy precipitation. These lines typically form in association with cold fronts and can extend for hundreds of miles, bringing abrupt changes in weather. When a squall line passes, it can lead to rapid increases in wind speed, torrential rain, and sometimes even hail or tornadoes.

In contrast, high pressure is associated with generally calm and clear weather, while cold fronts, while they can produce storms, do not always result in the same sustained winds and rainfall that squall lines can trigger. Warm fronts generally bring steady, moderate precipitation and less severe winds when compared to the intense conditions of a squall line. Understanding the characteristics of these phenomena is essential for predicting weather and ensuring safety during adverse conditions.