Hey Mark,
The best thing I could suggest is to read up on some literature re formation of storms, Cold water does not necessarily mean no storms - there is a world of atmospheric conditions that need to be met even before storms can develop. For example in the US they have lightning and hail with severe snow storms in winter - so that proves you don't need warm sunny days with humidity! This forum site has many areas on the home page by Jimmy and others re storm observation and the like - well worth a look.
I was a bit perplexed with how 'it all happens' but it's taken me six months of reading and researching to get up to speed. Since then i've gained valuable knowledge that has helped no end. Added to all this is that your'e correct in referring to where you might live...I used to live in Adelaide and we'd get bugger all storms but now and then you'd get some beaut ones, some places are more favorable for storms and severe weather, others aren't - It's one of those things.
The key is to read, read and read and in between that ask questions as you have done here and then ask again!!!
Mike
