Thunderstorms

Question 1

What are the stages of a thunderstorm?

Answer 1

1. Cumulus
2. Mature
3. Dissipating

Question 2

Cumulus Stage

Answer 2

The lifting action of the air begins, sufficient moisture and instability are present. The clouds continue to grow in height, updrafts only.

Question 3

Mature Stage

Answer 3

Within 15 min the mature stage is reached. The most violent time of the storm. Drops of moisture begin to start rain/snow/hail become to heavy for the clouds to hold. Consists of both updrafts and downdrafts.

Question 4

Dissipating Stage

Answer 4

Downdrafts only and the cell begins to die.

Question 5

Can you fly over a thunderstorm?

Answer 5

No because they can be as high as 50,000-60,000 ft.

Question 6

What can you encounter flying below thunderstorm?

Answer 6

Hail, damaging lightning, and violent turbulence.

Question 7

What is needed for a thunderstorm to form?

Answer 7

Water vapor, unstable lapse rate, and a lifting action.

Question 8

What is a squall line?

Answer 8

1. A narrow band of active thunderstorms.
2. Often develops along or ahead of a cold front in moist unstable air, but may just form in unstable air far from a cold front.
3. The line may be too long or wide to avoid the storm and may be to severe to to penetrate.