What conditions are most favorable for   thunderstorms ?

Thunderstorms are most favorable where the air is  relatively warm and moist at low levels while being cool aloft. In      addition thunderstorms usually require a mechanism to lift       the atmosphere such as a  cold front, dry line, low pressure trough or mountainous  terrain. 

Thunderstorms are possible any time of the day and any  season  of the year. However in southern New Mexico and     far western Texas they are most common from late May through mid September with the majority of thunderstorms occurring  in July and August during the afternoon and   evening hours. 

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

By definition, a severe thunderstorms produces wind gusts of at least 58 miles an hour, hail at least 3/4 inch in    diameter or a tornado. Severe thunderstorms cause numerous deaths and injuries each year and will often   damage or destroy buildings, overturn motor vehicles, blow down trees and power lines and ruin crops. Persons should always monitor the weather by using NOAA Weather Radio or listening to local television and radio stations. When the National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning it means thunderstorms   with damaging winds, large hail and a possible tornado are possible within the next hour. When severe  thunderstorms approach, seek shelter in a strong building, stay away from windows and avoid using your   telephone until the storms pass.