Automated cell detection as a mesocyclone precursor tool
By: F. Ian Harris, Pio J. Petrocchi
Contributors: Petrocchi, Pio J; U.S. Air Force Geophysics Laboratory. Atmospheric Sciences Division
Series: AFGL-TR -- 84-0266; Environmental research papers ; v no. 891; Environmental research papers (Hanscom AFB, Mass.) -- no. 891
Publisher: Atmospheric Sciences Division, Air Force Geophysics Laboratory
Published: 1984
Place of publication: Hanscom AFB, MA
Language: eng
Number of pages: 24
Subjects: Radar meteorology; Mesometeorology
Description: 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.
Notes: Distributed to depository libraries in microfiche

"5 October 1984."

Bibliography: p. 23-24

Scientific final. Oct 82 to Sep 84

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