thunderstorms Flashcards
1
Q
what are 3 things required for thunderstorms to form
A
- sufficient water vapor (moisture)
- unstable temperature lapse (allows any air mass displace to grow
vertically) - an initial lifting force
2
Q
what is the first stage in a thunderstorm & info abt it
A
cumulus
- 3-5 mile height
- the lifting action of the air begins
- growth rate exceed 3000 fpm
3
Q
what is the second stage in a thunderstorm & info abt it
A
mature
- 5-10 miles height
- precipitation starts to fall
- updrafts
- updrafts may exceed 6000’ fpm & downdrafts may exceed 2500’
- THUNDERSTORM HAZARDS ARE AT THEIR GREATEST INTENSITY
4
Q
what is the final stage in a thunderstorm & info abt it
A
dissipating
- 5-7 miles height
- string downdrafts & cell drying rapidly
5
Q
what are thunderstorm hazards
A
- limited visibility
- wind shear
- strong updrafts / down drafts
- icing
- hailstones
- heavy rain
- severe thunderstorms
- lightning strikes & tornadoes
