Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Fear of thunderstorms
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Fear of thunderstorms: An abnormal and persistent fear of thunderstorms. Sufferers experience anxiety even when they realize the risk of harm is very small. Consequently, when indoors they might seek shelter under a bed, in a closet or in a basement. They generally keep a watchful eye on the sky and remain alert for reports of electrical storms.
Fear of thunderstorms is termed "astraphobia," a word derived from the Greek "aster" (star) and "phobos" (fear).
Related term: Brontophobia: Fear of thunder.