What are the primary characteristics of a thunderstorm at its dissipating stage?

In the dissipating stage of a thunderstorm, the primary characteristics include predominantly downdrafts as the storm weakens. This stage marks the transition where the intensifying updrafts that initially fueled the storm begin to diminish. As the storm's energy is lost, updrafts weaken, and downdrafts become the primary air movement, leading to a decrease in precipitation intensity and the eventual fading of the storm.

During this period, you may also notice a reduction in lightning and thunder activity compared to the earlier stages of the thunderstorm. The process of the storm dissipating involves the cooling of the surrounding air, which continues to descend, causing the thunderstorm to lose its structure and energy. Therefore, an understanding of downdrafts during this stage is essential for pilots, as it indicates the storm's weakening and potential for safe flying conditions to return.