If thunderstorms were present in the area, then why did the crew decide to fly through them? Aren't crews briefed about thunderstorms during the pre-flight briefing? I thought pilots have been advised not to fly through thunderstorms as it may jeopardize the safety and operation of the flight and aircraft?
The WX radar might not have been functioning, the brightness might have been turned down. Thunderstorms can form in 30 minutes or less.