Harsh words peel like thunder

[JPablo]

Anger flashes like lightening... harsh words peel like thunder.. Clouds open with cascading tears.

What is the definition of the word "peel" in the context above?

Is this a metaphoric usage of "peel"?

What would be a correct/good translation into Spanish?

I'd go for something like,
"las palabras duras se desprenden como el trueno"
but doesn't quite click for me.

Any better/correct ideas?

Otherwise as the Spanish goes, "después de la tempestad, llega la calma"... so hopefully you guys can help me to make the clouds part on this little issue...