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Fine-Scale Doppler Radar Observations of Tornadoes
1J. Wurman, School of Meteorology, University of Oklahoma, 100 East Boyd Street, Norman, OK 73019, USA. J. M. Straka, School of Meteorology, Center for Analysis and Prediction of Storms and Cooperative Institute for Mesoscale Meteorological Studies, University of Oklahoma, 100 East Boyd Street, Norman, OK 73019, USA. E. N. Rasmussen, National Severe Storms Laboratory, 1313 Halley Circle, Norman, OK 73069, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 21, 1996
Summary
Mobile Doppler radar revealed new details of tornadic storms and tornadoes, confirming existing models. Uncovered structures include debris shields and axial downdrafts within tornadoes.
Area of Science:
- Meteorology and atmospheric science
- Severe weather research
Background:
- Tornadic storms and tornadoes exhibit complex structures that are difficult to resolve with traditional radar.
- Existing conceptual models of tornadic storm evolution require further verification through high-resolution data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate previously unresolved structures within tornadic storms and tornadoes using mobile Doppler radar.
- To verify and refine conceptual models of tornadic storm development and behavior.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a mobile pencil-beam Doppler radar system for high-resolution data acquisition.
- Analyzed radar reflectivity and velocity data from parent storm circulations and tornado cores.
Main Results:
- Identified detailed structures within parent circulations, including spiral reflectivity bands and intense wind shear zones.
- Observed tornado-specific features such as debris shields, clear axial regions, surrounding reflectivity bands, and reflectivity protrusions into the eye.
- Detected evidence of axial downdrafts within tornado-scale circulations.
Conclusions:
- Mobile Doppler radar provides unprecedented detail of tornadic storm and tornado structures.
- The observed features support and enhance current conceptual models of tornadic phenomena.
- Further research with advanced radar technology can improve understanding and prediction of severe weather events.