• 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. 

Click here to learn when a storm may strike and who's most at risk.