What is the term for rotating updrafts in a thunderstorm?

The term for rotating updrafts in a thunderstorm is a mesocyclone. A mesocyclone is a significant feature in severe thunderstorms and often precedes the development of tornadoes. It represents a larger scale rotation within a storm system and typically forms when wind shear causes a horizontal spinning effect in the lower atmosphere, which can then be tilted into a vertical orientation by the updraft.

This rotation is indicative of strong and organized storm systems and is crucial for meteorologists when assessing the potential for severe weather. Understanding the dynamics of mesocyclones helps forecasters predict tornado formation, which is essential for issuing timely warnings to mitigate risk to life and property.