What conditions are most favorable for   thunderstorms ?

Thunderstorms are most favorable where the atmosphere is relatively warm and moist in the lower layers and cool aloft. In addition thunderstorms usually require a lifting mechanism such as a cold front, dry line, low pressure trough or mountainous terrain.  Sometimes strong surface heating alone will initiate thunderstorms if the air contains enough moisture.

Thunderstorms are possible any season of the year and any time of the day or night. However in southern New Mexico and far western Texas they are most common from late May through mid September during the afternoon and evening hours.  In a typical year, most of our thunderstorms occur during July and August.

1. FLASH FLOODS
2. TORNADOES
3. LIGHTNING
4. STRAIGHT-LINE WINDS
5. HAIL

                                                SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS

By definition a severe thunderstorm produces wind gusts of at least 58 miles an hour, hail with a diameter 3/4 of an inch or greater, or a tornado. Severe thunderstorms cause numerous deaths and injuries across the United States each year. They often damage or even destroy buildings, overturn motor vehicles, blow down trees and power lines, and ruin crops over large areas. Severe thunderstorms have also contributed to serious aircraft accidents including airline crashes. When the National Weather Service issues a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING it means thunderstorms with large hail, damaging winds and even a tornado are possible within the next hour. When severe thunderstorms approach, seek shelter in a strong building and stay away from windows.

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