Sounds of thunder is a phenomenon that occurs when lightning strikes the ground. It is characterized by a loud clap or peal of thunder that can be heard from miles away. The two words that describe this sound are 'PEALS' and 'claps'. PEALS refer to a series of loud, reverberating sounds, while claps refer to a single, sharp sound. Both words accurately describe the sound of thunder that is created when lightning strikes the ground.