Non-Severe Thunderstorm Life Cycle
This section will
explain the life cycle of a thunderstorm. The life cycle of a thunderstorm
has been divided into 3 stages which characterize thunderstorm development
(the cumulus stage, the mature stage, and the dissipating stage). An animation
of each will help you distinguish the important features of each process.
Look at the following questions and see if you can suggest some answers
after you have completed the materials in this section.
(1.) Why do you think these systems
have such a short
1/2 hour) life time?
(2.) What atmosphere conditions
would you add to extend
the life time of these storms?
(3.) How would you make them
more tornadic?
Why
Should Air RiseAt All? 
Cumulus Stage