Got a question about Convection storms....

[BiggJawn]

When I look at NOAA's radar loop, I sometimes notice that the "pop-up" T-storms seem to boil up over cities of about 10,000 or so, then they take off and start building as they go downwind.

Am I imagining things, or does urban heat contribute to storm formation?

Remember, my ticket's punched for VCR repair, not Meteorology....

[Mutley]

1. I believe it is very possible

that the extra heat and humidity hovering over a large urban area can create the conditions possible for a thunderstorm. I live in Baltimore and I observe that sort of phenomenon frequently.

[texas1928]

2. Concrete heating up and the updrafts that it creates.

As they move up can trigger storm development, they are usually short lived storms but some can get caught in the upper air flow and move on and stay together.

[Kolesar]

3. Convection occurs over plowed fields and asphalt, as opposed to woodlots

So, I think you have it figured out.