What Is the ‘cap' and Why Does It Kill Thunderstorm Chances in Dallas-Fort Worth?

If there’s one thing that can ruin the chance for thunderstorms in North Texas, it’s "the cap."It’s a term often mentioned by meteorologists in their forecasts, and it can turn a prediction for severe storms into a total bust. So what is it?The cap is a stable layer of warm air about 2,000 feet above ground, according to Matt Stalley, a National Weather Service meteorologist. When a cap is in place over North Texas, it suppresses or delays the development of thunderstorms because it prevents air from rising.“It keeps a lid on thunderstorms from developing over the area,” Stalley said.  Continue reading...