Tornado Pathway Dynamics Using UASs: The Influence of Topography on Tornadoes

Understanding the influences of terrain on tornado pathways has often been challenging. We know that topography can influence tornado intensity and direction by altering near-surface inflow. Damage surveys and numerical models have shown that tornadoes can weaken, strengthen or even change direction depending on the position of the tornado relative to terrain characteristics. We present a case study from 1 May 2018 at Tescott, Kansas, USA. At the microscale, we aim to show the influence of terrain on the tornado track using UAS technologies and geospatial techniques. This tornado had a path length of 17 miles and measured rated an EF-3 at a maximum.

This field research presents high resolution damage patterns from two UAV platforms in visible and multispectral wavelengths. Digital surface elevation models show the influence of terrain on the tornado track. Changes in tornadic intensity can be seen due to the influence of local micro-topographical features and hill-strengthened wind shear. This research shows topography is one of a number of important variables that should be considered when performing tornado site investigations. This research also illustrates the importance of using UASs in obtaining high resolution data for analysis.