Convective instability occurs when dry mid-level air moves over warm moist air in the lower atmosphere, causing vertical air movements that are larger and more turbulent than stable air. This instability can lead to convection that transports heat and water vapor upwards until the atmosphere stabilizes, potentially resulting in severe weather such as thunderstorms.

1. Convective
Instability
Yae Won Kim

2. Stability v. Instability
 Refers to air mass’ ability to resist vertical
motion.
 Instability means vertical air movements
are larger and more turbulent.
 This can then lead to severe weather such
as thunderstorms.

3. How?
 Occurs when dry mid-level air moves over
warm moist air in the lower atmosphere.
 Convection moves heat and water vapor
upwards while moving dry, cooler air to
lower levels.
 It continues to do this until the atmosphere
becomes stable.