Dual Frequency Doppler Radar Observations of Tornadoes

University Of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst MA

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this research project is to understand better the dynamics of severe convective storms and tornadoes. Mobile Doppler radar data sets collected in tornadoes will be analyzed in detail and a small, focussed field experiment will be conducted to collect and analyze additional data in order to obtain a better statistical characterization of tornadoes and their environment. The main thrust of this effort will be to estimate wind speeds near the ground in tornadoes, determine the three-dimensional wind field in tornadoes, determine why tornadoes form and dissipate and find out why some supercell storms produce tornadoes, while others do not. Additionally, the Principal Investigator will collect pilot dual-wavelength radar data this will help in development of techniques to map the liquid water and drop size distribution fields in severe storms. Successful completion of this research will lead to better conceptual models of tornadoes and tornado genesis and eventually lead to more accurate predictions.