Convective instability associated with severe thunderstorms and tornadoes can be brought on by lifting a stable air layer whose surface is humid and whose top is dry.

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Convective instability occurs when a layer of moist air at the surface is overlain by drier air aloft. When this moist surface air is lifted, it can cool at a rate slower than the dry air above it due to its moisture content. This differential cooling can lead to instability, promoting the development of severe thunderstorms and potentially tornadoes as the rising warm, moist air interacts with the cooler, drier air above.

Convective Instability Associated with Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Can Be