Heavy rain occurs when three key ingredients align:

Heavy rain is defined as a substantial amount of precipitation falling over a short period. According to the National Weather Service, this typically means rainfall rates exceeding . At its most extreme, "cloudbursts" can dump over 2 inches (50 mm) in just one hour.

Unlike the refreshing, crisp rain of autumn, a hot downpour feels claustrophobic. Here is what happens to your body: