When do most air mass thunderstorms typically occur?

Most air mass thunderstorms typically occur in the afternoon or early evening due to the accumulation of heat and moisture during the day. As the sun rises, the ground and air warm, leading to increased evaporation and the development of convective currents. This heating creates unstable atmospheric conditions, allowing warm, moist air to rise rapidly. When this rising air cools, it can condense into clouds, forming thunderstorms.

In the afternoon and early evening, the temperature is usually at its peak, contributing to the intensity and frequency of these storms. By contrast, during the early morning or nighttime, the atmosphere tends to be more stable and cooler, which generally inhibits the development of thunderstorms. Therefore, the afternoon or early evening is recognized as the prime time for air mass thunderstorms to form due to the highest levels of solar heating and atmospheric instability.