What is the main feature of the cooling downdrafts during the dissipation phase?

The central feature of cooling downdrafts during the dissipation phase is that they dominate the airflow. In this phase of a thunderstorm, downdrafts become more pronounced as the storm begins to weaken. The cooling air, which is heavier than the surrounding air, descends rapidly and spreads out at the surface, creating a significant influence on the overall airflow patterns. This downward motion can lead to the eventual dissipation of the storm and disrupt any established updrafts.

Understanding this feature is essential as it highlights the transition from an active storm phase, characterized by strong updrafts and energy release, to a more stable and calming state. The downdrafts effectively remove energy and moisture from the storm system, indicating that the storm is losing its strength. While other factors like reduced visibility can occur as a consequence of rain, fog, or debris, the dominating nature of downdrafts during the dissipation phase is key to understanding how storms transition and weaken over time.