According to the life cycle of a thunderstorm, at which stage do all hazards reach their greatest intensity?

In the life cycle of a thunderstorm, the mature stage is when all hazards reach their greatest intensity. During this phase, the storm is fully developed, featuring strong updrafts and downdrafts that contribute to severe weather phenomena. This is the time when heavy rainfall, hail, strong winds, and even tornadoes can occur.

The mature stage signifies not just the peak of the storm's structure but also the maximum electrical activity, resulting in frequent lightning. The storm can produce severe conditions, posing significant risks to life and property. This is why it is critical for people to take safety precautions when a thunderstorm is identified in this stage.

Other stages, such as the cumulus, dissipating, and development stages, do not exhibit the same intensity of hazards. In the cumulus stage, the storm is just beginning to build, while the dissipating stage indicates a decrease in storm activity. The development stage is primarily characterized by the initial formation and growth of the storm's structure. Therefore, the mature stage stands out as the critical point when all associated hazards are most severe.