Is the formation of precipitation due to surface heating of the air at the ground surface. If enough heating occurs, the mass of air becomes warmer and lighter than the air in the surrounding environment, and just like a hot air balloon it begins to rise, expand and cool. When sufficient cooling has taken place saturation occurs forming precipitation. This process is active in the interior of continents and near the equator forming cumulus clouds and possible later thunderstorms. Rain is usually the precipitation type that is formed, and in most cases this moisture is delivered in large amounts over short periods of time in extremely localised areas.