What factor increases the likelihood of hail formation during thunderstorms?

The presence of strong updrafts with a significant amount of liquid water content is crucial for hail formation during thunderstorms. When a storm produces powerful updrafts, it can lift moisture-laden air high into the storm cloud, where temperatures are well below freezing. As the supercooled liquid droplets freeze upon contact with other ice particles, layers of ice accumulate, forming hailstones.

The combination of strong updrafts and plenty of liquid water allows the newly formed hailstones to be lifted repeatedly within the storm, allowing them to grow larger before falling to the ground. In essence, the strength of the updraft is vital because it both provides the necessary lift for the hail to grow and prevents it from falling prematurely. This dynamic environment, characterized by strong updrafts and ample liquid water, creates the perfect conditions for significant hail formation as part of a severe thunderstorm.