Good morning everyone! You heard me mention the word “cap” a few times as I describe a possible reason why we are not receiving any thunderstorms. Basically, a “cap” is a layer of warm air above our heads which will suppress the ability of thunderstorms to develop. In order for a cloud or thunderstorm to develop, air has to rise to the point where it condenses into that cloud. Now, let’s go back to high school science class (in my case, Mr. Descombes); in order for a parcel of air to rise, it has to be warmer than the air around it. If it meets air that is the same temperature or warmer than itself, it cannot rise. This is the where the level of the “cap” will be. Sometimes, the energy of this parcel of air is so strong and fast, it can “bust the cap” and continue its upward motion and produce a thunderstorm. This is an example of yet another term used frequently in describing meteorological conditions: “Loaded Gun”. We will save that for another time……..Subby
