THUNDERSTORMS

Learning Outcomes
1. Define Thunderstorms.
2. Explain how thunderstorms form and how they behave.
3. Identify the different effects of thunderstorms.
4. Identify areas prone to thunderstorms.
5. Formulate plans what to do before, during, and after a
thunderstorm.
 THUNDERSTORM

Is a violent, transient type of

weather disturbance associated
with thousands of meters tall
cumulonimbus clouds and which
usually involves lightning and
thunder, strong winds, intense
rainfall, and occasionally
tornadoes and hail
Thunderstorms often occur in the equatorial regions.
These can occur at any time of the day, but happen
mostly in the afternoon or evening during summer.
 THUNDERSTORM
Requirements for the formation of a
thunderstorm:
• moisture (water vapor) which must
be readily available in the lower
atmosphere to produce clouds and
precipitation during storm formation;
• an unstable, rapidly rising mass of
warm air; and
• a strong upward current of air
(updraft) to force moisture to higher,
colder levels of the atmosphere.
THUNDERSTORM LIFE CYCLE

Developing or Cumulus Stage

Begins with the upward growth of a

cumulus cloud due to the
continuous updraft and supply of
moisture

The cumulus cloud grows further

with domes and towers and
transforms into a mushroom-
shaped cumulonimbus cloud
 THUNDERSTORM LIFE CYCLE
Mature Stage

is indicated by the initiation of strong

downward current of air (downdraft) and
by precipitation

This stage, which usually lasts for 10-20

minutes, (but can even last up to an hour
or so) produces heavy rain, frequent
lightning and thunder, tropical cyclones,
and occasionally hail
THUNDERSTORM LIFE CYCLE
Final or Dissipating stage
Begins with the upward growth of a
cumulus cloud due to the
continuous updraft and supply of
moisture
The cumulus cloud grows further
with domes and towers and
transforms into a mushroom-
shaped cumulonimbus cloud
THUNDERSTORM LIFE CYCLE
THUNDERSTORM LIFE CYCLE
Hazards of Thunderstorms
• Lightning
• Hail Formation
• Tornadoes and
Waterspouts
• Downburst
• Flashflood