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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-thunderstorm-mature-stage

A thunderstorm cell moves from the towering cumulus stage to the mature stage when what happens?

When precipitation reaches the surface.

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  1. Precipitation reaches the surface ✔
  2. The anvil top forms
  3. Lightning begins

Why: Falling precipitation drags the adjacent air downward and creates a strong downdraft alongside the updraft. The three stages are towering cumulus, mature and dissipating.

Huh, didn't know that: A typical thunderstorm cell lasts about 30 minutes in total.

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References

Answer: Precipitation reaches the surface. Falling precipitation drags the adjacent air downward and creates a strong downdraft alongside the updraft. The three stages are towering cumulus, mature and dissipating.

  1. FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
    The cell transitions to the mature stage when precipitation reaches the surface.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
    The total life cycle is typically about 30 minutes.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
    The dissipating stage is marked by a strong downdraft embedded within the area of precipitation.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  4. FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
    Precipitation tapers off and ends.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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