ELI5 Storm timing

r/

Why do storms(especially tornados) seem to intensify in the afternoon rather than happening any time? Is it due to temperature shifts as the sun sets?

Comments

  1. astrognash Avatar

    Yes, it’s because the afternoon tends to be the hottest part of the day because it’s the part when the sun has been shining the longest. Higher temperatures mostly mean more energy, and more energy means more potential for storms.