A sudden burst of rain can be described using a range of synonyms to help express the intensity and suddenness of the rainfall. Other similar phrases that can be used include 'torrential downpour', 'heavy shower', 'cloudburst', and 'deluge'. Each of these words paints a different picture of the rainfall, from the forceful and unrelenting torrential downpour to the brevity of a heavy shower. Other synonyms that could be used include 'squall', 'flare-up', 'outburst', and 'spate'. Each of these words further emphasizes the sudden and startling nature of the rain, giving readers a variety of options when it comes to describing this type of weather.