1. Cumulus stage: This is the initial stage of a thunderstorm, where relatively small, puffy clouds, known as cumulus clouds, form in the sky. These clouds are generally harmless and do not produce precipitation.

2. Mature stage: As the thunderstorm develops, the cumulus clouds grow vertically, forming a towering cloud structure called a cumulonimbus cloud. This cloud contains both updrafts and downdrafts within it. Precipitation, such as rain or hail, begins to fall from the cloud, and lightning and thunder may occur.

3. Dissipating stage: In this stage, the updrafts weaken, and the thunderstorm begins to lose its energy. The precipitation decreases in intensity, and the lightning and thunder become less frequent. The anvil-shaped top of the cumulonimbus cloud starts to spread out.

4. Decaying stage: This is the final stage of the thunderstorm, where the cloud structure begins to break up and dissipate. The precipitation stops, and the cloud gradually dissolves into the surrounding air. The lightning and thunder also cease, marking the end of the thunderstorm.