Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Thunderclap
How loud is a thunderclap?
A thunderclap measures about 120 dB, roughly as loud as an emergency siren. At 120 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 9 seconds a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 120 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme risk — At or above the pain threshold |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 9 seconds a day |
| Typical setting | outdoors |
Figures sourced to NIDCD. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How a thunderclap compares
On the decibel scale, 120 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Emergency siren 120 dB
- Chainsaw 110 dB
- Shouting or barking directly in the ear 110 dB
- Personal listening device at max volume 105–110 dB
How loud is a thunderclap?
A thunderclap measures about 120 dB, roughly as loud as an emergency siren. At 120 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 9 seconds a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is a thunderclap dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 120 dB, a thunderclap is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 9 seconds a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.