High-resolution analysis of 26 February 2023 EF2 Norman OK Tornado

An EF2 tornado occurred in Norman on 26 Feb 2023, developing southwest of the city, crossing the southeast portion, and moving northeast toward Stella, OK, traversing different land cover types and ranging in intensity. In this paper we present a preliminary analysis of the damage using multiple datasets: high-resolution satellite imagery and UAS data collected at multiple locations along the track. We also analyze data collected at different time intervals as part of a longitudinal analysis to understand the optimal window for data collection based on land cover type and damage intensity. We use geospatial analysis, machine learning and change detection techniques to classify damage, damage intensity and the temporal change in damage. We combine damage information with close-range WSR-88D data from the KTLX radar, including three-dimensional analysis of correlation coefficient to understand the evolution of the TDS in comparison to the damage. The variation of damage as a function of land cover is also explored. This analysis is one component of an ongoing comprehensive study of the evolution of this tornado utilizing UAS, multi-Doppler analysis, and intensive examination of dual-polarization radar characteristics.