A historical perspective of In-Situ observations within Tornado Cores

Meteorological measurements within tornado cores have been attempted over the past several decades with varying degrees of success. This paper is an overview of in-situ measurements attempted within the violent region close to and inside a tornado. Very few diagnostic measurements exist of the atmosheric properties inside a tornado, and only instruments designed to withstand the extreme environments within the core will survive. The type of meteorological measurements that have been recorded in the past and the measurements planned in future studies will be discussed.

Methodologies of placing these instruments in the paths of tornadoes will also be discussed as this task is achieved with significant difficulty. Fielding strategies will be examined as they are key to a successful deployment.