What describes the "cumulus stage" in a thunderstorm's life cycle?

The cumulus stage is a critical phase in the life cycle of a thunderstorm, characterized primarily by the initial development of towering cumulus clouds as warm, moist air rises. During this stage, the upward convection of air causes the formation of cumulus clouds, which continue to grow vertically due to the ongoing supply of warm air. Notably, this stage does not involve significant downdrafts or rain, as the updrafts dominate the process.

The growth of these cumulus clouds sets the stage for the next phases of the thunderstorm life cycle, which include the mature stage where downdrafts and precipitation begin to occur. Understanding the cumulus stage is crucial for recognizing how thunderstorms evolve and the conditions that lead to more severe weather phenomena.