Extreme storms, like recent ones in the US, follow a recipe

Extreme storms, like those that hit the central U.S. in early April, follow a recipe. Image via Kelly Sikkema/ Unsplash.

• Extreme storms form thanks to moisture and atmospheric instability. These two ingredients are common in the central U.S. in spring.
• Climate change means more warm air, and warm air holds more moisture, leading to wetter and stronger storms.
• The most significant warming occurs near the surface, while the upper atmosphere is cooling. This can increase the instability that triggers strong storms.