Analysis of Southeast US Tornadic and Non-tornadic Environments of Varying Storm Modes using Observed Soundings from the VORTEX-SE, Meso18-19, and PERiLS Field Campaigns

Hundreds of observed soundings from 40 convective events across multiple field projects in the Southeast US, including VORTEX-SE (2016-2020), Meso18-19 (2018-2019), and PERiLS (2022-2023), are used to differentiate tornadic vs. non-tornadic environments. Using multi-radar multi-sensor (MRMS) composite reflectivity data, storm objects are identified with an objective identification algorithm at the nearest MRMS time when a sounding is available. For each object with a mesocyclone(s) or mesovorticies, the mid-level (typically 2 - 5 km) mesocyclone or mesovortex location, associated convective mode, and storm motion are recorded. Each mesocyclone is classified as tornadic, pre- or post-tornadic, or non-tornadic based on whether it was associated with tornado production 30 minutes prior to or 90 minutes post-sounding launch time. Environments are differentiated by compositing soundings and additional statistical analysis of sounding parameters for tornadic and non-tornadic environments as well as differing convective mode environments at varying spatial, temporal, and azimuthal ranges between the soundings and mesocyclones. We begin to identify differences in environments supportive of tornadic vs. non-tornadic storms in the southeast U.S. We explore what unique characteristics of each environment can be extracted from observed soundings. The goal of this project is to further our understanding of the differences between tornadic and non-tornadic environments in the Southeast US. Specifically, we aim to understand how environments vary in both space and time near convection, and if tornadic or non-tornadic storms modify the environment more (or differently) than the other. Another goal of this work is to lay the groundwork for understanding how the environment is modified by different convective modes. Do certain convective modes, due to differing environmental feedbacks, modify the environment more or less than others? Does a supercell have less impact on the overall environment than a QLCS? Results from our ongoing investigation into these questions will be presented at the conference.