Moisture plays crucial role in storm development and intensity

The last several weeks we've talked about three ingredients needed for storm development, but today we're going to be breaking down the fourth and final needed for strong to severe storms; moisture.

All storms need moisture. The lower-level jet stream is going to be one of the most important tools in identifying where moisture is coming from and how much is available for storms to use . Storms could have all three of these other ingredients, but without the proper moisture in the atmosphere, we have nothing for clouds to form with since there is nothing to condense and form the actual clouds with.

The majority of the moisture we get here in mid-Missouri for our showers and storms as we head towards the spring and summer months is from the Gulf of Mexico. Air from the Gulf is going to be less dense air that can rise more effectively boosting storm growth.

When looking at Thursday night at 9 pm we can see some chances of some stronger showers and storms. This moisture is pulling back in from the south, wrapping around a low pressure system and finds its way back towards mid-Missouri, where it eventually is going to be meeting with a warm front that will activate these showers and storm.

At the surface, increased moisture can mean increased dew points needed to get closer to 55 degrees. 55 degree dew points is a benchmark number that can help increase storm strength. There will be increased chances of stronger storms once again later into the weekend appearing into Sunday.

Make sure to keep up to date with our latest forecast to stay safe in case inclement weather strikes your area.