What feature is typically associated with the cumulus stage of a thunderstorm?

During the cumulus stage of a thunderstorm, a continuous updraft is the defining feature. In this stage, warm air rises due to surface heating and creates cumulus clouds. As the warm air continues to rise, it cools and condenses, forming larger cloud formations. This continuous updraft is crucial for the development of the storm as it sustains the growth of the cloud and can eventually lead to the formation of precipitation.

The presence of a continuous updraft allows the cloud to develop vertically, becoming more organized and potentially reaching the mature stage of a thunderstorm if conditions permit. It’s important to note that in this early stage, rain may not yet be reaching the ground, as the process of precipitation formation is still underway and relies on the strength of the updraft to support the growing cloud structure.