What Makes A Thunderstorm?
Every Thunderstorm Needs: • Moisture – to form clouds and rain. • Unstable Air – relatively warm air that can rise rapidly. • Lift – fronts, sea breezes, and mountains are capable of lifting air to help form thunderstorms. Life Cycle of a Thunderstorm Developing Stage • Towering cumulus cloud indicates rising air. • Usually little if any rain during this stage. • Lasts about 10 minutes. • Occasional lightning during this stage. Mature Stage • Most likely time for hail, heavy rain, frequent lightning, strong winds, and tornadoes. • Storm occasionally has a black or dark green appearance. • Lasts an average of 10 to 20 minutes but may last much longer in some storms. Dissipating Stage • Rainfall decreases in intensity. • Some thunderstorms produce a burst of strong winds during this stage. • Lightning remains a danger during this stage.
