MET Thunderstorms

Question 1

Describe the lifecycle of a thunderstorm

Answer 1

Towering cumulus
Mature
Dissipating

Question 2

Annotate the life cycle of a thunderstorm

Answer 2

Towering cumulus
Strong warm updrafts over diameter of 1 to 2 miles no downdraughts.
Mature stage
Precipitation particles become too heavy starting to fall, causing strong downdraughts
Dissipating stage
Water content is at maximum, only downdraughts.

Question 3

Hazards associated with a thunderstorm.

Answer 3

-wind shear
-severe turbulence
-severe icing
-Hail
-lightning strikes
-downburts & microbursts
-tornadoes and water spouts

Question 4

Equipment used to detect thunderstorms in aviation operations

Answer 4

Weather RADAR.