Automated Cell Detection as a Mesocyclone Precursor Tool.
Abstract
Automated cell detection in radar observations of convective storm complexes has been explored as a severe storm indicator. Six-dB peaks were detected in the radar reflectivity fields and their characteristics were monitored as a function of time. It was found in a severe tornadic storm that the number of cells and the average intensity of the cells had trends that appear to be characteristic of super-cell storms with these trends being identifiable at least 45 min before the touchdown of the first tornado and 90 min before the touchdown of a maxi tornado. None of these trends could be detected in a storm system that produced only a funnel cloud. This second storm did produce a tornado vortex signature. It would appear that the peak detection algorithm has the potential of extending the warning period for severe weather associated with super-cell and for indicating the potential of extremely severe weather. Testing has been limited and therefore these results must be considered somewhat tentative. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 05, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA154952
Entities
People
- F. I. Harris
- P. J. Petrocchi