What are the three stages of a thunderstorm?

The correct answer identifies the three distinct stages of a thunderstorm, which are crucial for understanding their life cycle and associated phenomena.

In the context of meteorology, the first stage is characterized by the development of cumulus clouds and the presence of updrafts. This stage is where warm, moist air rises, leading to the condensation of water vapor and the formation of cumulus clouds. As the cloud grows, it begins to develop into a larger storm cloud, indicating the initiation phase of a thunderstorm.

The second stage, known as the mature stage, is marked by the presence of heavy rain, lightning, and thunder. During this phase, both updrafts and downdrafts coexist, leading to the strongest intensity of the storm. This is when the most severe weather, such as hail or strong winds, is likely to occur.

The final stage involves the dissipation of the storm, characterized by a reduction in rain and the weakening of updrafts. The downdrafts become more dominant as the storm loses energy and eventually dissipates.

Understanding these stages is essential for pilots and meteorologists, as it aids in predicting storm behavior and associated risks during flight operations.