What characterizes the cumulus stage of thunderstorm development?

The cumulus stage of thunderstorm development is characterized primarily by the formation of towering cumulus clouds that are dominated by strong updrafts. During this initial phase, warm, moist air rises and cools, leading to the development of cumulus clouds. These clouds grow vertically as the updrafts continue to dominate, leading to the buildup of energy within the storm. This stage is significant because it sets the foundation for subsequent stages of a thunderstorm, where more complex dynamics such as precipitation and downdrafts occur.

The focus during the cumulus stage is on the healthy growth of these towering clouds, indicating the storm is in its infancy. It is only after reaching a certain height and strength that characteristics such as precipitation, anvil formation, and downdrafts become relevant in the later stages of storm development. The emphasis on updrafts is critical, as it is the sustained rise of warm, moist air that ultimately contributes to the thunderstorm's intensification.