What typically happens during the mature stage of a thunderstorm?

During the mature stage of a thunderstorm, strong downdrafts occur as a result of the cooling effects of the precipitation that falls from the storm. As rain begins to fall, it creates a drag on the surrounding air, which accelerates downward. This is a defining characteristic of the mature stage, where the storm reaches its peak intensity, exhibiting both substantial updrafts and downdrafts.

The presence of both strong updrafts and downdrafts leads to turbulent conditions and can produce severe weather phenomena such as hail, strong winds, and sometimes tornadoes. This turbulent dynamic is necessary for the storm's development and sustenance, making the downdrafts a crucial component of the mature phase of a thunderstorm.

In contrast, options related to ceasing rainfall, temperature increases, or updrafts dominating the environment do not accurately reflect what typically occurs during this stage. In fact, rainfall is ongoing, and while updrafts precede the downdrafts in the earlier stages, it is the intense interaction between both that characterizes the mature stage.